Vicanicin is an aryl phenol ether compound found in lichens. It inhibits the expression of Hsp70, modulates intracellular redox-sensitive mechanisms, increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cancer cells, alters the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, activates caspase-3, and induces apoptosis. Vicanicin suppresses cell growth and promotes apoptosis in androgen-sensitive (LNCaP) and androgen-insensitive (DU-145) human prostate cancer cells. It holds potential for prostate cancer research.
