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Isothiocyanates in Cancer Therapeutics - A Molecular Perspective
Prasad S Variyar1, Penna Suprasanna2
1Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, India.
Chemistry & Biodiversity
|July 16, 2026
Summary
Isothiocyanates (ITCs), found in plants like Brassicaceae, show anticancer and anti-inflammatory benefits. Research explores their structure, function, and potential in drug conjugates and combination therapies for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Isothiocyanates (ITCs) are natural organo-sulfur compounds abundant in Brassicaceae plants.
- ITCs exhibit significant bioactivities, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
- Their chemical structure, particularly electrophilicity and nucleophilicity, dictates bioactivity and anti-tumorigenic effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of ITCs, focusing on their structure-activity relationship.
- To elucidate the biological functions of ITCs in inhibiting tumorigenesis and their mechanisms of action.
- To explore the potential of ITC-drug conjugates and combination therapies for cancer treatment and methods to enhance dietary ITC content.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on ITCs.
- Analysis of structure-activity relationships of various ITCs.
- Examination of research on ITC-drug conjugates and combination therapies.
- Review of methods for enhancing glucosinolate (GLS) to ITC conversion.
Main Results:
- ITCs demonstrate potent anticancer activity against various tumors.
- ITC-drug conjugates and combination therapies show promise for clinical applications.
- Methods to enhance the conversion of plant-derived glucosinolates (GLSs) into beneficial ITCs can improve nutritive and anticancer properties.
Conclusions:
- ITCs possess significant potential as anticancer agents, particularly through novel therapeutic strategies.
- Understanding ITC structure-activity relationships is crucial for developing effective cancer treatments.
- Enhancing dietary intake and conversion of ITCs can contribute to cancer prevention and improved health benefits.
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