**1. Introduction**

Oxyresveratrol belongs to the group of phytochemicals known as hydroxystilbenoids and has a molecular structure similar to the well-known phytochemical resveratrol. They are monomeric stilbene comprising two aromatic rings joined by an ethylene bridge, of which, the *trans* isomer is the most common configuration (Figure 1) [1]. The natural sources of these stilbenes are abundant in grapes, itadori, peanuts, and *A. lakoocha* [2–4]. The compounds demonstrate similar biological activities and are used in the treatment of atherosclerosis, inflammatory, pigmentation, and carcinogenesis [5]. Interestingly, however, several biological activities are unique to oxyresveratrol (antivirus and antihelminthics) [6,7]. Further, several reports suggest that oxyresveratrol or the heartwood extract of *A. lakoocha* might cause DNA damage and cause oxidative stress [8–10]. Previous studies report that resveratrol and its derivatives are capable of double-stranded DNA cleavage specifically in the presence of copper ions and oxygen [10]. Piceatannol, a resveratrol derivative, fragmented DNA in human peripheral blood [9]. Some polyphenolic compounds are already well-known to cause DNA damage and are being investigated as useful leads in the development of chemotherapeutic drugs [11]. In this study, we consequently investigated the ability of oxyresveratrol from the heartwood of *A. lakoocha* to induce DNA damage and the mechanism by which the damage occurs.

**Figure 1.** Chemical structure of oxyresveratrol, resveratrol and *trans*-stilbene.
