The Role of Isothiocyanates in Chemoprevention and Cancer Progression: A Review of the Current Evidence
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47847/Keywords:
Isothiocyanates, cancer, apoptosis, bioactive compounds, broccoli, cauliflowerAbstract
Isothiocyanates are bioactive small molecules formed from glucosinolate precursors found in cruciferous vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower. This review summarizes current scientific evidence regarding their role as potent anticancer agents across various cell lines, including pancreatic, liver, lung, and breast cancer. Isothiocyanates, notably sulforaphane and phenethyl isothiocyanate demonstrate significant antineoplastic activity by inducing selective apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Recent studies highlight their capacity to affect multiple cellular pathways, such as oxidative stress through Nrf2 activation, the inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in colorectal cancer stem cells. This synthesis emphasizes the importance of cruciferous vegetable intake as a chemopreventive strategy, while noting the necessity for further research into epigenetic mechanisms and individual genetic variability.
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