Which two functional groups on anthracyclines are involved in redox reactions and form reactive oxygen species (ROS)?

The involvement of the quinone and hydroquinone functional groups in anthracyclines in redox reactions is integral to understanding how these compounds produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). Quinones can undergo redox cycles, where they alternate between oxidized (quinone) and reduced (hydroquinone) states. This process generates ROS, which can lead to oxidative stress and damage in cells.

These oxidative processes are key to the pharmacological mechanisms of anthracyclines. The generated ROS can induce apoptosis in cancer cells, contributing to the efficacy of these drugs in cancer treatment. Additionally, the reactivity of quinones and hydroquinones can also lead to DNA damage, which is an important aspect of how anthracyclines exert their antitumor activity.

This unique redox activity is not associated with the other functional groups listed in the other options, which lack the same capacity for engaging in such redox reactions and producing ROS, making it clear why the quinone and hydroquinone functional groups are specifically noted in this context.