Glucosinolate Hydrolytic Products-A Multi-Arm Warrior

Glucosinolates (GSLs) are the most controversial yet ignored class of phytochemicals. These are the middleman phytochemicals that have low bioactivity. But once there is any injury in the plant-manmade, insect caused, or natural-magic happens. The compound is broken down into smaller phytochemicals referred to as glucosinolate hydrolytic products (GHPs; nitriles, isothiocyanates [ITCs], and thiocyanates). These hydrolytic products are like a showstopper of the fashion industry. These compounds have some of the highest bioactivity in nature. They have been associated with a varied range of bioactivities (anticancer, antioxidant, insecticidal, weedicide, etc.) by researchers across the globe.

The objective of the current article is to provide a critical review to highlight some of the important bioactivities of these ignored compounds and for promoting researchers to at least give these compounds a chance-to glow in the dark.

This review has been written from analysis of accessible literature, mostly from the last 5 years (2018-2023), with some critically essential exceptions.

The review highlighted a brief background of GSLs and its hydrolysis. Efforts were made to include most of the biological properties of the compound. Special emphasis has been given to the anticancer activities of the compound with details of the involved mechanism.

Considering the wide array of bioactivities of GHPs, it is essential to consider it as a prospective medicinal compound. More GHPs-in a similar manner as sulforaphane-can be proceeded to phase trials.

The mechanistic pathway for production of GHPs and related biological activities have been discussed in detail. The bioactivities have been further explained using the involved mechanism.