The neuroprotective mechanisms and effects of sulforaphane

Abstract

Sulforaphane (SFN) is a phytochemical found in cruciferous vegetables. It has been shown to have many protective effects against many diseases, including multiple types of cancer. SFN is a potent activator of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) antioxidant response element (ARE) genetic pathway. Upregulation of Nrf2-ARE increases the availability of multiple antioxidants. A substantial amount of preclinical research regarding the ability of SFN to protect the nervous system from many diseases and toxins has been done, but only a few small human trials have been completed. Preclinical data suggest that SFN protects the nervous system through multiple mechanisms and may help reduce the risk of many diseases and reduce the burden of symptoms in existing conditions. This review focuses on the literature regarding the protective effects of SFN on the nervous system. A discussion of neuroprotective mechanisms is followed by a discussion of the protective effects elicited by SFN administration in a multitude of neurological diseases and toxin exposures. SFN is a promising neuroprotective phytochemical which needs further human trials to evaluate its efficacy in preventing and decreasing the burden of many neurological diseases.

Antioxidants as a Potential Target against Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

“…Sulforaphane (SFN) is found in highest concentrations in vegetables such as cauliflower and broccoli sprouts, and it has been shown that SFN is an activator of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) [52]. Nrf2 is a transcription factor widely recognized as a master regulator of cellular redox homeostasis [53,54].…”

“…Action mechanisms of antioxidants used against inflammation are shown in Figure 2. actor 2 (Nrf2) [52]. Nrf2 is a transcription factor widely recognized as a master regulator of cellu edox homeostasis [53,54].…”

Protective Effects of 2′,3′-Dihydroxy-4′,6′-dimethoxychalcone Derived from Green Perilla Leaves against UV Radiation-Induced Cell Injury in Human Cultured Keratinocytes

“…15,16) Furthermore, certain Nrf2 activator was reported to fail to increase the protein levels of γ-GCS and NQO1, although the mRNA levels of them were upregulated. 17) Sulforaphane is not only a powerful antioxidant phytochemical but also anti-inflammatory phytochemical with great promise in its ability to protect the nervous system from many diseases and toxins and reduce the symptomatic burden of multiple pervasive diseases. 18) There is a possibility that unknown factors should be involved in DDC-induced upregulation of HO-1 in HaCaT cells in addition to Nrf2-ARE pathway.…”

<em>Mens sana in corpore sano:</em> Does the Glycemic Index Have a Role to Play?

“…Indeed, sulforaphane given to autistic children improve their behavioral phenotype. Moreover, although the mechanism of action is not known, sulforaphane is described as modulating oxidative stress, methylation, or apoptosis, and to be a potent neuroprotective molecule [170][171][172][173][174]. Overall, the identification of this molecule supports a beneficial role of low GI diet in ASD.…”