Inducer of apoptosis; displays potent antitumor ability in human hepatocellular carcinoma. Inhibits tubulin polymerization in vitro and in vivo. Causes cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase by activation of Cdc2 kinase activity. Induces translocation of apoptosis inducing factor (AIF) from the mitochondria to nucleus. Also exhibits vascular targeting activity through upregulation of p53 and induction of death receptor (DR5)-mediated apoptosis in HUVEC cells.