Metal chelator and ionophore with beneficial effects in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Huntington's disease). Effects on Alzheimer's disease attributed to copper and zinc chelation or increased level of a metalloprotease. Other actions reported including iron chelation, inhibition of Huntington expression from its mRNA, proteasome inhibition when complexed with copper, and stimulation of tumor necrosis factor-α secretion. Also inhibitor of CLK-1/MCLK1 (an aging-associated protein).