Nicaraven induces programmed cell death by distinct mechanisms according to the expression levels of Bcl-2 and poly (ADP-ribose) glycohydrolase in cancer cells

•The cytotoxic effect of nicaraven on U937 lymphoma cells and HCT-8 colorectal cancer cells.•Nicaraven exerts a direct cytotoxic effect on cancer cells through apoptosis or parthanatos according to the expression levels of Bcl-2 and PARG.•A novel insight into the molecular mechanism of nicaraven against cancer cells.•Nicaraven has a promising role as an adjuvant therapeutic drug for cancer patients.