Podophyllotoxone is primarily utilized in the field of medicinal chemistry as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various biologically active compounds. It plays a crucial role in the development of anticancer agents, particularly in the production of etoposide and teniposide, which are widely used chemotherapeutic drugs. These drugs function by inhibiting topoisomerase II, an enzyme essential for DNA replication, thereby preventing the proliferation of cancer cells. Additionally, podophyllotoxone derivatives are explored for their potential antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable compound in pharmaceutical research. Its structural framework also serves as a basis for designing novel therapeutic agents targeting diverse diseases.