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Quinacrine (QC) is a tricyclic compound and a derivative of 9-aminoacridine. It has been widely used to treat
malaria and other parasitic diseases since the last century. Interestingly, studies have revealed that it also displayed anticancer activities. Here, we have discussed the anti-cancer mechanism of QC along with its potentiality to specifically
target cancer stem cells. The anti-cancer action of this drug includes DNA intercalation, inhibition of DNA repair
mechanism, prevention of cellular growth, cell cycle arrest, inhibition of DNA and RNA polymerase activity, induction of
autophagy, promotion of apoptosis, deregulation of cell signaling in cancer cells and cancer stem cells, inhibition of
metastasis and angiogenesis. In addition, we have also emphasized on the synergistic effect of this drug with other potent
chemotherapeutic agents and mentioned its different applications in anti-cancer therapy.