Chemical and biological evaluation of nephrocizin in protecting nerve growth factor-differentiated PC12 cells by 6-hydroxydopamine-induced neurotoxicity

► Neuroprotective effects of nephrocizin in 6-OHDA-induced PC12 cells was evaluated. ► Nephrocizin decreased caspase-3 and -8 activities induced by H2O2 or p-quinone. ► Nephrocizin scavenged OH through forming 5′,5′-nephrocizin dimers. ► These chemical and biological studies suggested potential screening methods.