Dietary Isothiocyanates: Novel Insights into the Potential for Cancer Prevention and Therapy

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Cancer Research
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Diet significantly impacts health, with phytochemicals like isothiocyanates offering protective benefits.
• Isothiocyanates are recognized for their potential to reduce cancer risk.
• Emerging research reveals novel mechanisms of isothiocyanate action against cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the anti-cancer activities and novel mechanisms of isothiocyanates.
• To discuss the complexities of isothiocyanate hormesis and dose-dependent effects.
• To explore the potential of isothiocyanates as adjunctive cancer therapies and delivery systems.

Main Methods:

• Review of in vitro and in vivo studies on isothiocyanate anti-cancer effects.
• Analysis of recent research on isothiocyanate mechanisms of action.
• Discussion of hormesis, dose-dependency, and formulation strategies.

Main Results:

• Isothiocyanates exhibit potent anti-cancer activities via multiple pathways.
• Mechanisms include modulation of tumor microenvironment, stem cell self-renewal, energy metabolism, and microbiota.
• Hormetic/biphasic effects necessitate careful consideration of dose and endpoint.
• Protection against Helicobacter pylori infection is also noted.

Conclusions:

• Isothiocyanates are promising cancer-preventative phytochemicals with diverse mechanisms.
• Their hormetic nature requires awareness of potential adverse effects and dose optimization.
• Dietary isothiocyanates may be best utilized as adjunctive treatments alongside conventional therapies.
• Novel delivery systems like nano-formulations show potential for enhanced efficacy.