Sulforaphane and human health
Over the past 25 years, the cancer protective effects of broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables have been well documented in the epidemiologic literature. The glucosinolates, which are found almost exclusively in cruciferous vegetables, are largely believed to convey these therapeutic benefits via the release of bioactive isothiocyanates, such as sulforaphane†.
The mechanistic basis behind the observed cancer protective effects of sulforaphane appears to involve the modulation of multiple pathways††: tumour initiation, promotion and progression phases, and also by suppressing the final steps of carcinogenesis, i.e. angiogenesis and metastasis.
Leadership in the clinical development of sulforaphane
Despite its clinical promise, the development of sulforaphane as a human therapeutic has hitherto not been viable due its inherent instability. Furthermore, the development of its natural precursor, glucoraphanin (a glucosinolate), has also been impractical due to manufacturing complexities and economics.
Via a large portfolio of in-licensed patented technologies, Evgen is addressing these technical challenges and will take leadership in the clinical development of sulforaphane (and related molecules) for the prevention and treatment of human disease.
† Traka M., Mithen R. F. (2009) Glucosinolates, isothiocyanates and human health. Phytochem Rev 8; 269-282
†† Juge N., Mithen R. F. and Traka M. (2007) Molecular basis for chemoprevention by sulphoraphane: a comprehensive review. Cell Mol Life Sci 64; 1105-1127