An antineoplastic antibiotic. Inhibits DNA-primed RNA polymerase by complexing with DNA via deoxyguanosine residues. A DNA-intercalator with growth inhibitory activity against certain leukemias and sarcomas. At higher concentrations, DNA polymerase is inhibited. Inhibits cell growth and colony formation in synchronized HeLa cells. A potent inducer of apoptosis in many cell lines (1).