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Emerging Promise of Sulforaphane in Autism: A Comprehensive Review of Its Therapeutic Potential and Mechanisms
Xinming Zhang1, Qi He1, Yuan Yuan Zhu1
1International Center for Redox Biology & Precision Medicine of Hubei Province, National 111 Center for Cellular Regulation and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Hubei University of Technology Autism & Depression Diagnosis and Intervention Institute, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei430068, China.
Insights
Sulforaphane (SFN), a compound found in cruciferous vegetables, shows promise for treating autism spectrum disorder (ASD). SFN
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition with no current pharmaceutical treatments.
- Oxidative stress and inflammation are implicated in ASD pathogenesis.
- Bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are being investigated for ASD treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential therapeutic mechanisms of sulforaphane (SFN) in protecting neurodevelopment and reversing neural damage associated with ASD.
- To elucidate the molecular pathways targeted by SFN relevant to ASD.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of studies on sulforaphane (SFN).
- Analysis of SFN's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties.
- Summary of seven key signaling pathways modulated by SFN.
Main Results:
- SFN exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects with a favorable safety profile.
- SFN engages multiple signaling pathways, including Keap1/Nrf2/ARE, MAPKs, NF-κB, HSR, AhR/CYP1, Sirtuin-FOXO, and mTOR/autophagy.
- These pathways are crucial for neuroprotection and mitigating ASD-related neural damage.
Conclusions:
- SFN demonstrates significant potential as a therapeutic agent for ASD due to its multifaceted neuroprotective actions.
- Understanding SFN's mechanisms of action provides novel insights for ASD treatment strategies.
- Further research into SFN utilization could lead to new therapeutic approaches for individuals with ASD.
Abstract:
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that emerges in early childhood and significantly impacts the quality of life for individuals and families. Currently, there are no specific medications available for ASD. Increasing attention is now focused on bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Sulforaphane (SFN), a key member of the isothiocyanate family, is abundant in cruciferous vegetables. It exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects with minimal side effects, while oxidative stress and inflammation are recognized triggers in ASD pathogenesis. As research deepens, SFN's physiological activities─including antioxidant, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties are gaining heightened attention. Building on prior studies, this review comprehensively summarizes seven potential pathways through which SFN protects neurodevelopment or reverses ASD-related neural damage, including Keap1/Nrf2/ARE; MAPKs; NF-κB; HSR; AhR/CYP1; Sirtuin-FOXO; and mTOR/autophagy signaling pathways, elucidating the potential mechanisms underlying its multifaceted actions. This review offers new insights for the comprehensive utilization of sulforaphane and the treatment of ASD.
