excavatolide C

Excavatolide C (EXCC) is a marine-derived diterpenoid isolated from the gorgonian octocoral *Briareum excavatum*. It exhibits potent antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic activities against several cancer types, including triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), non-TNBC, and bladder cancer. The compound's mechanism of action is primarily driven by the induction of oxidative stress, characterized by the upregulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial superoxide, alongside the depletion of cellular antioxidants such as glutathione (GSH). This oxidative imbalance leads to a reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential, DNA damage (evidenced by increased levels of γH2AX and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine), and the activation of the apoptotic cascade via caspases 3, 8, and 9. Preclinical studies indicate that Excavatolide C possesses a favorable safety profile, showing significantly lower cytotoxicity toward normal breast and bladder cells compared to malignant cells. It has also been investigated in combination with cisplatin to enhance therapeutic efficacy in bladder cancer models.

Other names

Excavatolide C