Deciphering the Therapeutic Promise of β-Lapachone against Pathogenic Multidrug Resistant Microbes and Breast Cancer Cell

The growing rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) infections, as well as the worldwide prevalence of cancer, one of the major causes of mortality, are two of the most serious and significant issues facing modern medicine. This study evaluated the antimicrobial and anticancer properties of beta lapachone in vitro and in silico. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using established assays such as diffusion methods, MIC and MBC determinations, CFU reduction, biofilm inhibition, oxidative stress analysis, and membrane integrity disruption. The beta lapachone investigated showed strong antimicrobial properties, significantly decreasing microbial viability, preventing biofilm formation, and generating membrane damage and oxidative stress.Anticancer activity was tested on breast cancer cell lines using MTT viability assays, Annexin V/PI flow cytometry, and cell cycle analysis. The beta lapachone had dose-dependent cytotoxic effects, with triggering S-phase arrest, which led to increase apoptosis.Molecular docking investigations showed their affinity for important microbial and cellular targets, proving the hypothesized mechanisms of action. These findings emphasize the beta lapachone therapeutic promise as dual-function medicines capable of treating both MDR infections and malignant tumors, thereby tackling two of the most serious dangers to world health.