Quinones

Rubiginone D2 is an antibiotic with inhibitory effects against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. It exhibits anticancer properties by suppressing the proliferation of cancer cells such as HM02, Kato III, HepG2, and MCF7, with GI50 values of 0.1, 0.7, <0.1, and 7.5 μM, respectively.

Chrysophanic acid is a naturally occurring anthraquinone compound, which is typically extracted from plants such as rhubarb and senna. It is commonly found in species within the Polygonaceae family. This compound functions primarily through mechanisms that involve modulating cellular pathways, possessing anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potential anticancer properties.

Protohypericin is a photosensitizer, which is a compound known for its ability to absorb light and induce a photodynamic response. This compound is derived from the plant Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort. The primary mode of action of protohypericin involves the absorption of specific wavelengths of light, leading to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These ROS are capable of inducing cell death, primarily through mechanisms such as apoptosis and necrosis.

Ferruginin A is a marine-derived compound, classified as a natural iron chelator. It is isolated from various marine organisms, particularly sponges and seaweeds, known for their complex secondary metabolites. As an iron chelator, Ferruginin A functions by binding to free iron ions in biological systems, thereby reducing oxidative stress and preventing metal-catalyzed radical formation. This action is crucial, particularly in cellular environments where excess free iron can lead to detrimental oxidative damage.

Sennidine B is a natural anthraquinone compound, which is derived from the plant species of the genus Senna. This compound functions primarily by promoting peristalsis in the colon, thus facilitating bowel movements. Sennidine B achieves this by modulating ion transport in the intestinal epithelium, enhancing water and electrolyte secretion, and stimulating the colonic muscles.