Anti-tumour signalling pathways and molecular targets of 1,4-naphthoquinone-based natural dyes

1,4-Naphthoquinone forms the central chemical structure of many beautiful natural dyes obtained from plants that have demonstrated significant pharmacological properties. Recently, 1,4-naphthoquinone-based natural dyes have been shown to exhibit promising anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous activities both in vitro and in vivo. The aim of this focused review is to demonstrate the anti-tumour activity of five major naturally-occurring 1,4-naphthoquinone compounds: plumbagin, juglone, shikonin, lawsone and lapachol. Also, to explain mechanistically the key intracellular signalling pathways and cellular organelles that are potentially targeted by these compounds.