8-OAc is a powerful and specific inhibitor of the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) complex I, demonstrating cytotoxic effects on cancer cell lines.

8-OAc (5-100 μM; 24 hours) preferentially targets cancer cells to initiate cell death pathways while minimally affecting the viability of non-cancerous cells. It induces the production of ROS, resulting in the death of liver cancer cells [1]. Additionally, 8-OAc generates mitochondrial excitation effects in Caenorhabditis elegans and extends the lifespan of adult worms. The compound requires the HSF1-mediated heat shock response (HSR) pathway [1].