TAK-960 is a potent and selective inhibitor of polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), which plays a critical role in cell cycle regulation, particularly during mitosis. Its primary application is in cancer research and therapy, where it is investigated for its ability to disrupt the proliferation of cancer cells. By inhibiting PLK1, TAK-960 prevents proper chromosome segregation and mitotic progression, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in tumor cells. This makes it a promising candidate for treating various cancers, including solid tumors and hematological malignancies. Preclinical studies have shown its efficacy in reducing tumor growth, and it is being explored in clinical trials to evaluate its safety and effectiveness in human patients. Additionally, TAK-960 is used as a research tool to study the role of PLK1 in cellular processes and to develop novel therapeutic strategies targeting mitosis in cancer.