Cell-permeable. A nitric oxide (NO) independent, superoxide-sensitive soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) activator (EC₅₀ = 18 µM). Induces concentration-dependent increase in cGMP levels in cultured cells and in rabbit aortic rings. Inhibits platelet adhesion to collagen. A non-specific phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor. YC-1 also inhibits HIF-α activity in tumors resulting in blocked angiogenesis and an inhibition of tumor growth. Inhibits Na⁺ channel.