A novel 1,4-naphthoquinone-derived compound induces apoptotic cell death in breast cancer cells

In this study, we evaluated the cytotoxic activity of a novel naphthoquinone-derived compound (1,4-naphthoquinone (1,4-NQ)) against two different breast cancer cells: a hormone-responsive cell line (MCF-7) and a triple-negative cell line (MDA-MB-231). As a result, 1,4-NQ decreased cell viability in both tested cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Increased apoptotic markers (presence of pyknotic nuclei, annexin-V positivity, caspase 3/7 activity, and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential) and DNA damage were especially observed in MDA-MB-231 cells after treatment with the compound. Considering the promising cytotoxic effect of the compound, 1,4-NQ needs further evaluation as a potential candidate for the treatment of TNBC.