cephalochromin

Cephalochromin is a natural bis-naphthopyrone compound, typically isolated from fungi such as *Cosmospora vilior*. It is being investigated for its potential as an antineoplastic agent, particularly in the treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). The drug's mechanism of action involves inducing extensive mitochondrial damage, reducing mitochondrial mass and membrane potential, and triggering apoptosis and DNA damage. Research indicates that cephalochromin can overcome resistance to the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax by reducing the expression of resistance-related proteins like MCL1 and inducing autophagy. It has shown synergistic effects when combined with venetoclax in various AML models while sparing healthy peripheral blood mononuclear cells.