Anthraquinone

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This editable Main Article is under development and subject to a disclaimer.

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Anthraquinone molecular structure

Anthraquinone is the class-defining compound for a number of naturally-occurring plant pigments. Anthraquinone itself has been associated with causing liver, bladder and kidney cancers, and other non-neoplastic disorders.[1]. It also, however, has been a starting point for developing antineoplastic agents, especially the anthracycline agents, of which doxorubricin (Adriamycin) is best known. [2]

The plant Rheum palmatum, called Indian rhubarb in North America and also used in traditional Chinese medicine is rich in anthraquinones.

Anthraquinone derivatives called sennosides are used as cathartics; they are the active principle in senna extract.

## References[edit]

1. ↑ TR-494 Anthraquinone, National Toxicology Program, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
2. ↑ Lown JW (1993 Nov), "(Abstract) Anthracycline and anthraquinone anticancer agents: current status and recent developments.", Pharmacol Ther 60 (2): 185-214