substantially lower cytotoxicity to LO2 cells. A follow-up enzyme inhibition assay and molecular docking study indicated that compound 5f can significantly inhibit the activity of Topoisomerase IIα. Further mechanistic studies performed in SMMC-7721 cells revealed that compound 5f can elevate the intracellular ROS levels, decrease mitochondrial membrane potential, and finally lead to the apoptosis of SMMC-7721