Sulforaphane: benefits, dosage, contraindications

Anticancer

Sulforaphane acts on several key mechanisms to slow tumor development. Firstly, sulforaphane stimulates phase II detoxification enzymes, such as glutathione-S-transferase, which neutralize carcinogens. In parallel, it inhibits phase I enzymes, like cytochrome P450, responsible for activating carcinogenic substances. These combined effects reduce the exposure of cells to carcinogens. Secondly, sulforaphane acts directly on tumor cells by blocking their growth cycle, inhibiting angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels feeding the tumor), and limiting metastasis. It also induces the death of cancer cells while sparing healthy cells. Finally, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action protects cells against oxidative damage and chronic inflammation, two processes involved in the initiation and progression of cancer. Research also shows that sulforaphane can enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy, such as cisplatin or doxorubicin, while reducing their side effects. These multiple actions make sulforaphane a promising ally in the prevention and complementary treatment of cancer.

Usages associés

Antioxidant

Sulforaphane is recognized for its powerful antioxidant properties. It primarily acts by activating the Nrf2 pathway, a key factor in regulating cellular defenses against oxidative stress. Once activated, Nrf2 stimulates the production of protective enzymes such as heme oxygenase (HO-1), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and quinone reductase (NQO1). These enzymes neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative damage at the cellular level. This antioxidant action of sulforaphane is particularly beneficial in preventing conditions associated with oxidative stress, such as cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. For instance, in animal models, sulforaphane has shown the ability to restore glutathione levels, a major antioxidant, and protect cells against oxidative damage caused by toxic or inflammatory agents. Furthermore, sulforaphane acts on mitochondrial metabolism, the primary sources of free radicals in cells. It protects mitochondria from lipid peroxidation and preserves their function, essential for cellular health.

Neurological

Sulforaphane is promising in the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. By activating the Nrf2 pathway, it stimulates the production of protective enzymes that reduce the accumulation of toxic proteins linked to diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. In Alzheimer's disease, studies show that sulforaphane prevents the formation of amyloid plaques and phosphorylated tau, protects neurons, and improves cognition. Administered to affected mice, it restores antioxidant levels and reduces inflammation markers, with optimal effect if treatment starts early when degeneration is minimal. For Parkinson's disease, sulforaphane protects dopaminergic neurons by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis, while improving motor functions and coordination. In multiple sclerosis, it reduces neuronal demyelination by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines and strengthening the blood-brain barrier. Additionally, preliminary research has explored its potential in the treatment of autism in children and young adults. The results indicate a modest improvement in social skills and behaviors, correlated with changes in urinary markers associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and the metabolism of amino acids and the gut microbiome. Finally, sulforaphane is also studied for its potential impact on depression. It seems to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a pathway involved in the stress response, while offering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection. These effects could improve depressive symptoms, especially in patients with oxidative stress or inflammatory imbalances. Thus, sulforaphane emerges as a promising candidate in managing neurological disorders, both for neurodevelopmental diseases and stress-related psychiatric disorders. Its neuroprotective potential could complement traditional treatments.

Usages associés

Cardiovascular

Sulforaphane has shown protective effects on the cardiovascular system. By activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway, it stimulates the production of antioxidant enzymes that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in cardiac and renal tissues. These actions could help reduce the risks of diseases such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. Additionally, studies on animal models suggest that sulforaphane improves cardiac function by modulating the expression of genes involved in the regulation of intracellular calcium, a key element in myocardial contraction and relaxation.