Nutraceutical potential of glucosinolates

Description

Glucosinolates (GLs) are secondary metabolites of plants that are primarily synthesized in the Brassica genus. They are classified into three categories: aliphatics, aromatics or indoles. Isothiocyanates are organosulfur compounds which are typically formed by the enzymatic conversion of indole GLs. Sulforaphane (SFN) is the most widely studied isothiocyanate with several nutraceutical benefits. GLs and in particular SFN mechanism of action is linked to the upregulation of Nrf2 protein, which present beneficial effects in the brain, pancreatin, and skin cancer, management of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, and neuroprotective effects. GLs and their breakdown products, specifically the sulphur-containing compounds, are known for their fungicidal, bactericidal, nematocidal, and allelopathic properties, as well as their use as cancer chemo-preventive and chemotherapeutic agents. Dietary supplements containing broccoli and other cruciferous vegetable extracts are commonly seen in the nutraceutical market.

Table of contents

1 Introduction 2 Classes of glucosinolates and their breakdown products 3 Hydrolysis of glucosinolates and the glucosinolate–myrosinase system 4 Analysis of glucosinolates 5 Mechanisms of action of glucosinolates 6 Glucosinolates as nutraceuticals 7 Summary and future trends 8 Where to look for further information 9 References