Anticanceragent 239 (Compound 5) is a ligand for the hTERT promoter G-quadruplex DNA structure (hTERT G4) with a dissociation constant (Kd) of 1.1 µM and reduces hTERT expression. It decreases telomerase activity, shortens telomere length, and induces DNA damage, acute cellular senescence, and apoptosis. Additionally, Anticanceragent 239 causes mitochondrial dysfunction, disrupts iron metabolism, and activates ferroptosis in cancer cells. It also inhibits tumor growth in MDA-MB-231 xenograft mouse models.
