PDK4-IN-1 hydrochloride is an anthraquinone derivative and a potent and orally active pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4) inhibitor with an IC50 value of 84 nM. PDK4-IN-1 hydrochloride potently represses cellular transformation and cellular proliferation and induces apoptosis. PDK4-IN-1 hydrochloride has antidiabetic, anticancer and anti-allergic activity.