Sulforaphane as a potential remedy against cancer: Comprehensive mechanistic review

Abstract

Sulforaphane belongs to the active class of isothiocyanates capable of delivering various biological benefits for health promotion and disease prevention. This com pound is considered vital to curtail numerous metabolic disorders. Various studies have proven its beneficial effects against cancer prevention and its possible utiliza tion as a therapeutic agent in cancer treatment. Understanding the mechanistic path ways and possible interactions at cellular and subcellular levels is key to design and develop cancer therapeutics for humans. In this respect, a number of mechanisms such as modulation of carcinogen metabolism & phase II enzymatic activities, cell cycle arrest, activation of Nrf2, cytotoxic, proapoptotic and apoptotic pathways have been reported to be involved in cancer prevention. This article provides sufficient information by critical analysis to understand the mechanisms involved in cancer pre vention attributed to sulforaphane. Furthermore, various clinical studies have also been included for design and development of novel therapies for cancer prevention and cure