Brassica vegetables and cancer prevention. Epidemiology and mechanisms

Natural products as glycolytic inhibitors for cervical cancer treatment: A comprehensive review

Cervical cancer, a prevalent gynaecological malignancy, presents challenges in late-stage treatment efficacy. Aerobic glycolysis, a prominent metabolic trait in cervical cancer, emerges as a promising target for novel drug discovery. Natural products, originating from traditional medicine, represent a significant therapeutic avenue and primary source for new drug development. This review explores the regulatory mechanisms of glycolysis in cervical cancer and summarises natural compounds that inhibit aerobic glycolysis as a therapeutic strategy. The glycolytic phenotype in cervical cancer is regulated by classical molecules such as HIF-1, HPV virulence factors and specificity protein 1, which facilitate the Warburg effect in cervical cancer. Various natural products, such as artemisinin, shikonin and kaempferol, exert inhibitory effects by downregulating key glycolytic enzymes through signalling pathways such as PI3K/AKT/HIF-1α and JAK2/STAT3. Despite challenges related to drug metabolism and toxicity, these natural compounds provide novel insights and promising avenues for cervical cancer treatment.

Association of the bitter taste genes TAS2R38 and CA6 and breast cancer risk; a case-control study of Polish women in Poland and Polish immigrants in USA

It is known that the perception of bitterness is mediated by type 2 bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs). However, recent reports have suggested that the carbonic anhydrase 6 (CA6) gene may also influence bitterness sensing. Genetic variants in these genes could influence dietary intake of brassica vegetables, whose increased consumption has been observed in the literature, though inconsistently, to decrease breast cancer (BC) risk. We hypothesized that the estimated odds ratios (ORs) for the association between BC and taster diplotype (PAV/PAV) and/or genotype A/A, will be in the direction of increased BC risk, potentially due to reduced consumption of brassica vegetables. Using a case-control study of BC in Polish women in Poland (210 cases and 262 controls) and Polish immigrant women to USA (78 cases and 170 controls) we evaluated the association of the taster diplotypes in TAS2R38 gene and genotypes in the CA6 gene and BC risk in these two populations individually and jointly. No significant increase in risk was observed for the TAS2R38 PAV/PAV diplotype (tasters) in each population individually or in the joint population. For the CA6 gene, in the joint population, we observed an increased BC risk for the combined G/A and G/G genotypes (non-tasters) vs A/A (tasters), OR = 1.41 (95% CI 1.04-1.90, p = 0.026) which after adjustment for False Discovery Rate (FDR), was not significant at p≤0.05 level. However, for the joint population and for the combined genotype of the two genes AVI/AVI+G* (non-tasters) vs. PAV/*+A/A (tasters), we observed a significant increase in BC risk, OR = 1.77 (95%CI 1.47-2.74, p = 0.01), for the non-tasters, which remained significant after FDR adjustment. In conclusion for the joint population and the joint effect for the two bitter sensing genes, we observed an increase in BC risk for the bitterness non-tasters, association which is in the opposite direction to our original hypothesis.

Formation of DNA Adducts by 1-Methoxy-3-indolylmethylalcohol, a Breakdown Product of a Glucosinolate, in the Mouse: Impact of the SULT1A1 Status-Wild-Type, Knockout or Humanised

We previously found that feeding rats with broccoli or cauliflower leads to the formation of characteristic DNA adducts in the liver, intestine and various other tissues. We identified the critical substances in the plants as 1-methoxy-3-indolylmethyl (1-MIM) glucosinolate and its degradation product 1-MIM-OH. DNA adduct formation and the mutagenicity of 1-MIM-OH in cell models were drastically enhanced when human sulfotransferase (SULT) 1A1 was expressed. The aim of this study was to clarify the role of SULT1A1 in DNA adduct formation by 1-MIM-OH in mouse tissues in vivo. Furthermore, we compared the endogenous mouse Sult1a1 and transgenic human SULT1A1 in the activation of 1-MIM-OH using genetically modified mouse strains. We orally treated male wild-type (wt) and Sult1a1-knockout (ko) mice, as well as corresponding lines carrying the human SULT1A1-SULT1A2 gene cluster (tg and ko-tg), with 1-MIM-OH. N2-(1-MIM)-dG and N6-(1-MIM)-dA adducts in DNA were analysed using isotope-dilution UPLC-MS/MS. In the liver, caecum and colon adducts were abundant in mice expressing mouse and/or human SULT1A1, but were drastically reduced in ko mice (1.2-10.6% of wt). In the kidney and small intestine, adduct levels were high in mice carrying human SULT1A1-SULT1A2 genes, but low in wt and ko mice (1.8-6.3% of tg-ko). In bone marrow, adduct levels were very low, independently of the SULT1A1 status. In the stomach, they were high in all four lines. Thus, adduct formation was primarily controlled by SULT1A1 in five out of seven tissues studied, with a strong impact of differences in the tissue distribution of mouse and human SULT1A1. The behaviour of 1-MIM-OH in these models (levels and tissue distribution of DNA adducts; impact of SULTs) was similar to that of methyleugenol, classified as "probably carcinogenic to humans". Thus, there is a need to test 1-MIM-OH for carcinogenicity in animal models and to study its adduct formation in humans consuming brassicaceous foodstuff.

Functional support vector machine

Linear and generalized linear scalar-on-function modeling have been commonly used to understand the relationship between a scalar response variable (e.g. continuous, binary outcomes) and functional predictors. Such techniques are sensitive to model misspecification when the relationship between the response variable and the functional predictors is complex. On the other hand, support vector machines (SVMs) are among the most robust prediction models but do not take account of the high correlations between repeated measurements and cannot be used for irregular data. In this work, we propose a novel method to integrate functional principal component analysis with SVM techniques for classification and regression to account for the continuous nature of functional data and the nonlinear relationship between the scalar response variable and the functional predictors. We demonstrate the performance of our method through extensive simulation experiments and two real data applications: the classification of alcoholics using electroencephalography signals and the prediction of glucobrassicin concentration using near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy. Our methods especially have more advantages when the measurement errors in functional predictors are relatively large.

The preventive effects of broccoli bioactives against cancer: Evidence from a validated rat glioma model

The aggressive and incurable diffuse gliomas constitute 80% of malignant brain tumors, and patients succumb to recurrent surgeries and drug resistance. Epidemiological research indicates that substantial consumption of fruits and vegetables diminishes the risk of developing this tumor type. Broccoli consumption has shown beneficial effects in both cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. These effects are partially attributed to the isothiocyanate sulforaphane (SFN), which can regulate the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, stimulate detoxifying enzymes, and activate cellular antioxidant defense processes. This study employs a C6 rat glioma model to assess the chemoprotective potential of aqueous extracts from broccoli seeds, sprouts, and inflorescences, all rich in SFN, and pure SFN as positive control. The findings reveal that administering a dose of 100 mg/kg of broccoli sprout aqueous extract and 0.1 mg/kg of SFN to animals for 30 days before introducing 1 × 104 cells effectively halts tumor growth and progression. This study underscores the significance of exploring foods abundant in bioactive compounds, such as derivatives of broccoli, for potential preventive integration into daily diets. Using broccoli sprouts as a natural defense against cancer development might seem idealistic, yet this investigation establishes that administering this extract proves to be a valuable approach in designing strategies for glioma prevention. Although the findings stem from a rat glioma model, they offer promising insights for subsequent preclinical and clinical research endeavors.

Sulforaphane inclusion in a freezing medium augments post-thaw motility, functional and biochemical features, and fertility potential of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) spermatozoa

Sulforaphane is a natural and highly effective antioxidant safeguarding the reproductive system, and alleviate oxidative stress. This study was designed in order to elaborate L-sulforaphane effect on semen quality, biochemical parameters, and fertility of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) spermatozoa. Semen was collected from five buffalo bull with artificial vagina (42 °C) three times and evaluated for volume, consistency (color), motility, and sperm concentration. After critical examination, semen was diluted (50 × 10⁶ spermatozoa per ml, 37 °C) in extenders with (2 μM, 5 μM, 10 μM, and, 20 μM) or without (control) sulforaphane, cooled (from 37 to 4 °C), equilibrated (4 °C), filled (straws, 4 °C), and cryopreserved (LN₂, -196 °C). Data analysis exhibited that sulforaphane addition in extender augments total motility (%, 10 μM, and 20 μM than control), progressive motility (%), and rapid velocity (%, 20 μM than control), and velocity parameters (average path velocity, μm/s, straight line velocity, μm/s and curved linear velocity, μm/s, 20 μM than control, and 2 μM). Moreover, sulforaphane augments functional features (membrane functionality, mitochondrial potential, and acrosome integrity) of buffalo sperm (20 μM than control). Sulforaphane preserves biochemical features of seminal plasma of buffalo i.e., Calcium (μM), and total antioxidant capacity (μM/L), followed by reduction in lactate dehydrogenase (IU/L), reactive oxygen species (10⁴ RLU/20 min/ 25 million), and lipid peroxidation (μM/ml) in 20 μM than control. Lastly, sulforaphane augments fertility rate of buffalo sperm at 20 μM than control, and 2 μM. Conclusively the existing study revealed that adding L-sulforaphane (20 μM) in a freezing medium augments motilities, kinematics, functional parameters, and fertility rate of buffalo spermatozoa. Correspondingly, sperm favorable biochemical features were also augmented with sulforaphane followed by reduction in oxidative stress parameters. Further studies are highly recommended to define the particular mechanism of action of sulforaphane in augmenting buffalo post-thawed semen quality, and in vitro fertility potential.

Salt-Affected Rocket Plants as a Possible Source of Glucosinolates

Soil salinity can have various negative consequences on agricultural products, from their quality and production to their aesthetic traits. In this work, the possibility to use salt-affected vegetables, that otherwise would be discarded, as a source of nutraceuticals was explored. To this aim, rocket plants, a vegetable featuring bioactive compounds such as glucosinolates, were exposed to increasing NaCl concentrations in hydroponics and analysed for their content in bioactive compounds. Salt levels higher than 68 mM produced rocket plants that did not comply with European Union regulations and would therefore be considered a waste product. Anyway, our findings, obtained by Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry, demonstrated a significant increase in glucosinolates levels in such salt-affected plants. opening the opportunity for a second life of these market discarded products to be recycled as glucosinolates source. Furthermore, an optimal situation was found at NaCl 34 mM in which not only were the aesthetic traits of rocket plants not affected, but also the plants revealed a significant enrichment in glucosinolates. This can be considered an advantageous situation in which the resulting vegetables still appealed to the market and showed improved nutraceutical aspects.

Benzo[a]pyrene toxicokinetics in humans following dietary supplementation with 3,3'-diindolylmethane (DIM) or Brussels sprouts

Utilizing the atto-zeptomole sensitivity of UPLC-accelerator mass spectrometry (UPLC-AMS), we previously demonstrated significant first-pass metabolism following escalating (25-250 ng) oral micro-dosing in humans of [14C]-benzo[a]pyrene ([14C]-BaP). The present study examines the potential for supplementation with Brussels sprouts (BS) or 3,3'-diindolylmethane (DIM) to alter plasma levels of [14C]-BaP and metabolites over a 48-h period following micro-dosing with 50 ng (5.4 nCi) [14C]-BaP. Volunteers were dosed with [14C]-BaP following fourteen days on a cruciferous vegetable restricted diet, or the same diet supplemented for seven days with 50 g of BS or 300 mg of BR-DIM® prior to dosing. BS or DIM reduced total [14C] recovered from plasma by 56-67% relative to non-intervention. Dietary supplementation with DIM markedly increased Tmax and reduced Cmax for [14C]-BaP indicative of slower absorption. Both dietary treatments significantly reduced Cmax values of four downstream BaP metabolites, consistent with delaying BaP absorption. Dietary treatments also appeared to reduce the T1/2 and the plasma AUC(0,∞) for Unknown Metabolite C, indicating some effect in accelerating clearance of this metabolite. Toxicokinetic constants for other metabolites followed the pattern for [14C]-BaP (metabolite profiles remained relatively consistent) and non-compartmental analysis did not indicate other significant alterations. Significant amounts of metabolites in plasma were at the bay region of [14C]-BaP irrespective of treatment. Although the number of subjects and large interindividual variation are limitations of this study, it represents the first human trial showing dietary intervention altering toxicokinetics of a defined dose of a known human carcinogen.

Spectroscopic, quantum chemical, molecular docking and molecular dynamics investigations of hydroxylic indole-3-pyruvic acid: a potent candidate for nonlinear optical applications and Alzheimer's drug

In this paper, a complete theoretical investigation of hydroxylic indole-3-pyruvic acid (HIPyA) molecule was performed using the DFT quantum chemical, molecular docking and molecular dynamics calculations. The conformational analysis of HIPyA molecule was carried out using density functional theory quantum chemical calculations. The most stable structure of the studied molecule was predicted by means of DFT/B3LYP method with cc-pVTZ basis set. The simulated vibrational frequencies were assigned and proved to be in agreement with the available experimental FT-IR data. The effects of gas phase and solvents on UV-visible spectra of HIPyA molecule were simulated using TD-DFT/B3LYP method with cc-pVTZ basis set. The analysis of the density of states spectrum validates the frontier molecular orbitals results, which reveals the charge transfer interaction in HIPyA molecule. The molecular electrostatic potential surface confirms the electrophilic and nucleophilic reactive sites of the studied molecule. The natural bond orbital analysis evidences the bioactivity of the studied molecule. The obtained first order hyperpolarizability value is 33.596 times greater than urea, which confirms the nonlinear optical activity of HIPyA molecule. The molecular docking analysis reveals that the studied molecule under interest can act as a potent inhibitor against the amyloid β-protein (Aβ) enzyme, which causes the Alzheimer's disease. The molecular dynamics analysis confirms the reliability of the docking results.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Assessing Bioavailability and Bioactivity of 4-Hydroxythiazolidine-2-Thiones, Newly Discovered Glucosinolate Degradation Products Formed During Domestic Boiling of Cabbage

Glucosinolates are plant secondary metabolites found in cruciferous vegetables (Brassicaceae) that are valued for their potential health benefits. Frequently consumed representatives of these vegetables, for example, are white or red cabbage, which are typically boiled before consumption. Recently, 3-alk(en)yl-4-hydroxythiazolidine-2-thiones were identified as a class of thermal glucosinolate degradation products that are formed during the boiling of cabbage. Since these newly discovered compounds are frequently consumed, this raises questions about their potential uptake and their possible bioactive functions. Therefore, 3-allyl-4-hydroxythiazolidine-2-thione (allyl HTT) and 4-hydroxy-3-(4-(methylsulfinyl) butyl)thiazolidine-2-thione (4-MSOB HTT) as degradation products of the respective glucosinolates sinigrin and glucoraphanin were investigated. After consumption of boiled red cabbage broth, recoveries of consumed amounts of the degradation products in urine collected for 24 h were 18 ± 5% for allyl HTT and 21 ± 4% for 4-MSOB HTT (mean ± SD, n = 3). To investigate the stability of the degradation products during uptake and to elucidate the uptake mechanism, both an in vitro stomach and an in vitro intestinal model were applied. The results indicate that the uptake of allyl HTT and 4-MSOB HTT occurs by passive diffusion. Both compounds show no acute cell toxicity, no antioxidant potential, and no change in NAD(P)H dehydrogenase quinone 1 (NQO1) activity up to 100 μM. However, inhibition of glycogen synthase kinases-3 (GSK-3) in the range of 20% for allyl HTT for the isoform GSK-3β and 29% for 4-MSOB HTT for the isoform GSK-3α at a concentration of 100 μM was found. Neither health-promoting nor toxic effects of 3-alk(en)yl-4-hydroxythiazolidine-2-thiones were found in the four tested assays carried out in this study, which contrasts with the properties of other glucosinolate degradation products, such as isothiocyanates.

Cancer and Traditional Plant Knowledge, an Interesting Field to Explore: Data from the Catalan Linguistic Area

Cancer is the second cause of death in the world and is foreseen to be responsible for about 16 million deaths in 2040. Approximately, 60% of the drugs used to treat cancer are of natural origin. Besides the extensive use of some of these drugs in therapies, such as those derived from the genus Taxus, a significant number of plants have revealed themselves as useful against cancer in recent years. The field of ethnobotany focuses on documenting traditional knowledge associated with plants, constituting a starting point to uncover the potential of new plant-based drugs to treat or prevent, in this case, tumour diseases and side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. From a series of extensive ethnobotanical prospections across the Catalan linguistic area (CLA), we have recorded uses for 41 taxa with antitumour effects. The two most quoted botanical families are Asteraceae and Ranunculaceae, and the most frequently reported species is Ranunculus parnassifolius, a high-mountain species, which is widely collected for this purpose. The reported species have been used to treat an important number of cancer types, focusing on preventive, palliative, and curative uses, as well as to deal with the side effects of conventional treatments. Comparing our results in CLA with previous data available in the most comprehensive databases of pharmacology and a review of cytotoxicity assays revealed that for the several species reported here, there was no previous evidence of traditional uses against cancer. Despite the need for further analyses to experimentally validate the information presented here, combining traditional uses and phylogenetically-informed strategies to phytochemical and pharmacological research would represent new avenues to establish more integrative approaches, hence improving the ability to select new candidate taxa in cancer research.

Sustainable Use of Cruciferous Wastes in Nanotechnological Applications

Over the last few years, new nanoparticle preparation methods have emerged by replacing the usual reagents with plant extracts obtained in different conditions. An example of a natural plant extract is those of cruciferous vegetables, to obtain the new bio-nano-coatings. Given the composition of cruciferous extracts and large amounts of wastes produced all over the world, they can be successful substitutes to replace conventional coatings and extend the possibility of “smart coatings“. The present review aims to be a critical discussion regarding the application of cruciferous waste in nanotechnological applications. This review paper can be a starting report for different researchers who intend to use this sustainable approach “from green to nanotechnology” to transpose manufacturing from laboratory to industry. Applying this approach to obtain nanostructures with plant waste highlights the importance of minimizing and re-utilizing residues from primary and secondary processing via chemical and social intervention, in order to contribute to the sustainability needs of the planet and its inhabitants.

Characterization of Thermally Induced Flavor Compounds from the Glucosinolate Progoitrin in Different Matrices via GC-TOF-MS

As important flavor precursors, glucosinolates are ubiquitous in the plant family of Brassicaceae. Glucosinolate degradation products are the major volatile flavor compounds of rapeseed oil, accounting for up to 80% of the total volatiles. However, up to now, little attention has been paid to the volatile flavor products of the nonenzymatic thermal degradation of glucosinolates. One of the most important factors that determine the flavor of hot-pressed rapeseed oil is the roasting process, where the thermal degradation of glucosinolates mainly occurs. The thermal degradation behavior and volatile products of progoitrin (the main glucosinolate of rapeseed) in different matrices (phosphate buffer at a pH value of 5.0, 7.0, or 9.0, sea sand, and rapeseed powder) at different temperatures (150-200 °C) and times (0-60 min) were studied using HPLC and GC-TOF-MS. Thereby, the degradation rate of progoitrin decreased in the following order: pH 9.0 > sea sand > rapeseed powder > pH 7.0 > pH 5.0. Further, a higher degradation was observed with increasing temperature and time. Under the applied conditions in this study, 2,4-pentadienenitrile was the major nitrile and thiophenes were the major sulfur-containing volatile compounds formed. Possible formation pathways of main sulfur-containing and nitrogen-containing volatiles were proposed.

Phenylalanine ammonia lyase is more relevant than Chalcone synthase and Chalcone isomerase in the biosynthesis of flavonoids during postharvest senescence of broccoli

Broccoli contains a high content of nutraceutical compounds, such as glucosinolates and flavonoids. In this work, the effect of different treatments that modulate postharvest senescence of broccoli was evaluated and flavonoid metabolism during postharvest storage was analyzed at 20°C. A decrease in hue angle (HUE°) and chlorophylls and an increase in flavonoid content were detected during senescence. It observed that most of the treatments that delayed senescence also decreased flavonoid content, except visible light and UV-C treatments. In all cases, a direct correlation between those treatments that increased flavonoid biosynthesis and BoPAL gene expression was detected. This response was not detected in the expression of the other two flavonoid synthesis relevant genes BoCHS and BoCHI, suggesting that BoPAL has a greater influence on the regulation of the via, during broccoli senescence. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Broccoli is a vegetable with valuable nutritional properties. Because it is in full development at the time of harvest, it has a short shelf life. In this work, it is showed that visible light and UV-C treatments not only delayed the senescence of broccoli, but also increased flavonoid content. Our results suggest that the most important enzyme in the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway during broccoli postharvest is phenylalanine ammonia lyase, and that this may be a key point in regulating the biosynthesis of these nutritionally valuable compounds.

Glucosinolates and Isothiocyantes in Processed Rapeseed Determined by HPLC-DAD-qTOF

Glucosinolates are well known as natural antimicrobials and anticarcinogenic agents. However, these compounds can lose their properties and transform into antinutrients, depending on processing conditions. In addition, the bitterness of some glucosinolate in rapeseed meal can affect the likability of the final product. Therefore, it is important to identify and determine each glucosinolate and its derived form, not just the total glucosinolate content, in order to evaluate the potential of the final rapeseed protein product. This study provides a comprehensive report of the types and quantities of glucosinolates and their derived forms (isothiocyanates) associated with different rapeseed processing conditions. Glucosinolates and isothiocyanates were determined by HPLC-DAD-qTOF. In our study, the enzymatic degradation of glucosinolates by myrosinase was the main factor affecting either glucosinolate or isothiocyanate content. Other factors such as pH seemed to influence the concentration and the presence of glucosinolates. In addition, process parameters, such as extraction time and separation technology, seemed to affect the amount and type of isothiocyanates in the final protein extracts. Overall, both determined intact glucosinolates and their derived forms of isothiocyanates can give different types of biological effects. More studies should be performed to evaluate the impact of glucosinolates and isothiocyanates on human health.

An Overview of Registered Clinical Trials on Glucosinolates and Human Health: The Current Situation

Epidemiological studies suggest a potential role of glucosinolates (GSLs) and isothiocyanates on human health. However, evidence from intervention studies, due to heterogeneity in features of study design, duration, participants, food or food components administered, and outcomes analyzed, is still insufficient. The current review aims to provide an overview of the trials on GSLs and GSL-rich foods registered over the last 20 years with the intention to summarize the main topics and results, but also the existing gaps that still need to be covered. Studies were collected by using ClinicalTrials.gov and the International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) registry. A total of 87 registered trials were identified with which most of them were performed by using extracts or pure compounds (n = 60) while few were conducted with GSL-rich foods (n = 27). In detail, sulforaphane was the most investigated compound, while broccoli was the most frequent food tested in the trials. The majority of the studies assessed the health effects of GSLs focusing on outcomes related to cancer and cognitive function, even if the current findings are not univocal. Emerging topics also included the study of GSLs and gut microbiota interaction and impact on skin health. Further attention was also drawn to the bioavailability of GSLs and/or derivatives from foods, extracts, and single compounds by also considering the contribution of the different genetic polymorphisms. In conclusion, although considerable efforts have been made to study GSLs and GSL-rich foods, further studies are necessary to provide evidence-based research and to corroborate the findings obtained. The interindividual response due to genetic polymorphisms should be further investigated in order to explore the contribution to the overall beneficial effect.

QTL Mapping and GWAS Reveal the Genetic Mechanism Controlling Soluble Solids Content in Brassica napus Shoots

Oilseed-vegetable-dual-purpose (OVDP) rapeseed can effectively alleviate the land contradiction between crops and it supplements vegetable supplies in winter or spring. The soluble solids content (SSC) is an important index that is used to evaluate the quality and sugar content of fruits and vegetables. However, the genetic architecture underlying the SSC in Brassica napus shoots is still unclear. Here, quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for the SSC in B. napus shoots were investigated by performing linkage mapping using a recombinant inbred line population containing 189 lines. A germplasm set comprising 302 accessions was also used to conduct a genome-wide association study (GWAS). The QTL mapping revealed six QTLs located on chromosomes A01, A04, A08, and A09 in two experiments. Among them, two major QTLs, qSSC/21GY.A04-1 and qSSC/21NJ.A08-1, accounted for 12.92% and 10.18% of the phenotypic variance, respectively. In addition, eight single-nucleotide polymorphisms with phenotypic variances between 5.62% and 10.18% were identified by the GWAS method. However, no locus was simultaneously identified by QTL mapping and GWAS. We identified AH174 (7.55 °Brix and 7.9 °Brix), L166 (8.9 °Brix and 8.38 °Brix), and L380 (8.9 °Brix and 7.74 °Brix) accessions can be used as superior parents. These results provide valuable information that increases our understanding of the genetic control of SSC and will facilitate the breeding of high-SSC B. napus shoots.

Controlled fermentation of curly kale juice with the use of autochthonous starter cultures

The aim of this paper was to evaluate the influence of different indigenous lactic acid bacteria isolates - as a single culture or bacterial consortium - on the functional and physicochemical properties of fermented curly kale juice. All tested variants exhibited good growth parameters, manifested by efficient pH lowering, increases in acidity, and fructose and glucose metabolism, as well as a significant inhibition of pathogens. A slight increase in total phenolic content was observed, while antioxidant activity remained unchanged. L. sakei and MIX A were associated with an increase in riboflavin and pyridoxine content, while L. plantarum only contributed to an increase in vitamin B₆ content. Bioconversion of individual phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and glucosinolates strongly depended on the strain-specific metabolism. In the process, the levels of ferulic acid and other hydroxycinnamic acids were maintained, while the content of 9-cis lutein increased. Considering presented results and our previous research regarding probiotic features of LAB strains, among tested starter cultures - L. plantarum seemed to possess the best characteristics as a potential starter culture for controlled fermentation of curly kale juice.

Current Knowledge and Challenges on the Development of a Dietary Glucosinolate Database in the United States

Glucosinolates (GSLs) are a group of cancer chemopreventive sulfur-containing compounds found primarily in Brassica vegetables. The goals of this study were to summarize the current knowledge and discuss the challenges of developing a dietary GSL database for US foods. A systematic literature search was conducted for the period 1980-2020. Thirty articles were found to meet all inclusion and exclusion criteria; 27 GSLs were reported in 16 different vegetables. GSLs identified and quantified ranged from 3 for winter cress to 16 for cabbage. In general, the experimental designs of these 30 studies did not fully consider the factors related to the data quality. Enormous variations of GSLs are observed between different vegetables and in the same vegetables. In conclusion, the studies on GSLs in commonly consumed vegetables are still limited, and some data may be outdated. Currently available data are not sufficient to develop a valid GSL database in the United States.

3,3'-Diindolylmethane Exhibits Significant Metabolism after Oral Dosing in Humans

3,3'-Diindolylmethane (DIM), a major phytochemical derived from ingestion of cruciferous vegetables, is also a dietary supplement. In preclinical models, DIM is an effective cancer chemopreventive agent and has been studied in a number of clinical trials. Previous pharmacokinetic studies in preclinical and clinical models have not reported DIM metabolites in plasma or urine after oral dosing, and the pharmacological actions of DIM on target tissues is assumed to be solely via the parent compound. Seven subjects (6 males and 1 female) ranging from 26-65 years of age, on a cruciferous vegetable-restricted diet prior to and during the study, took 2 BioResponse DIM 150-mg capsules (45.3 mg DIM/capsule) every evening for one week with a final dose the morning of the first blood draw. A complete time course was performed with plasma and urine collected over 48 hours and analyzed by UPLC-MS/MS. In addition to parent DIM, two monohydroxylated metabolites and 1 dihydroxylated metabolite, along with their sulfate and glucuronide conjugates, were present in both plasma and urine. Results reported here are indicative of significant phase 1 and phase 2 metabolism and differ from previous pharmacokinetic studies in rodents and humans, which reported only parent DIM present after oral administration. 3-((1H-indole-3-yl)methyl)indolin-2-one, identified as one of the monohydroxylated products, exhibited greater potency and efficacy as an aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist when tested in a xenobiotic response element-luciferase reporter assay using Hepa1 cells. In addition to competitive phytochemical-drug adverse reactions, additional metabolites may exhibit pharmacological activity highlighting the importance of further characterization of DIM metabolism in humans. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: 3,3'-Diindolylmethane (DIM), derived from indole-3-carbinol in cruciferous vegetables, is an effective cancer chemopreventive agent in preclinical models and a popular dietary supplement currently in clinical trials. Pharmacokinetic studies to date have found little or no metabolites of DIM in plasma or urine. In marked contrast, we demonstrate rapid appearance of mono- and dihydroxylated metabolites in human plasma and urine as well as their sulfate and glucuronide conjugates. The 3-((1H-indole-3-yl)methyl)indolin-2-one metabolite exhibited significant aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist activity, emphasizing the need for further characterization of the pharmacological properties of DIM metabolites.

Effect of sulforaphane on apoptosis, reactive oxygen species and lipids peroxidation of human sperm during cryopreservation

Sperm cryopreservation is a common procedure to preserve viable sperm for an indefinite period. This procedure has numerous detrimental effects on sperm function due to increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). During cryopreservation, while ROS increases, antioxidant enzymes level decreases. It has been shown that a relationship exist between lower antioxidant levels and infertility. l-Sulforaphane (SFN) is an isothiocyanate in cruciferous vegetables of the brassica class that has potent protective effects against oxidative stress. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of SFN supplementation during the freeze-thaw process on different parameters of human spermatozoa which can influence sperm fertilizing ability. Samples were collected from 25 healthy men and each sample was divided into three groups: fresh, control (untreated frozen/thawed samples) and treatment (treated frozen/thawed with SFN) groups. Sperm parameters, ROS production (using flow cytometry), plasma membrane integrity (using flow cytometry), Lipid peroxidation (using ELISA) were evaluated. Our results demonstrated that 5 μM SFN improved all parameters of sperm including viability (P < 0.001), motility, and morphology (P < 0.05) after the freeze-thaw process. Furthermore, SFN reduced the levels of intracellular hydrogen peroxide (P < 0.01) and superoxide anion (P < 0.05). Also, SFN significantly increased the percentage of viable sperm cells with the intact plasma membrane (P < 0.001) and decreased the level of lipid peroxidation after the freeze-thaw process (P < 0.01).Our findings showed that spermatozoa treatment with 5 μM SFN before the freeze-thaw process has protective effects against oxidative stress and could decrease the detrimental effects of this process on sperm quality.

Plastome engineering in vegetable crops: current status and future prospects

Plastome (plastid genome) engineering has grown up and got smarter for the transgene expression. Plastid transformation has profound benefits over nuclear transformation, includes a higher level of transgene expression, integration via homologous recombination, transgene containment, lack of gene silencing, and position effect. Substantial and fruitful progress has been achieved in plastome engineering of vegetable crops through the use of improved regeneration/selection procedures, plastid transformation vectors with efficient promoters, and 3^/, 5^/regulatory sequences. Plastid transformation technology developed for vegetable crops being used as a platform for the production of industrially important proteins and some of the genes of agronomic importance has been stably integrated and expressed in plastome. Although great progress has been accomplished in the plastid transformation of vegetable crops, still it is restricted to few species because of the unavailability of whole plastome sequencing. In this review, the author focus on the technology, progress, and advancements in plastid transformation of vegetable plants such as lettuce, tomato, potato, cabbage, cauliflower, eggplant, carrot, soybean, and bitter melon are reviewed. The conclusions, future prospects, and expansion of plastid transformation technology to other vegetable crops for genetic improvement and production of edible vaccines are proposed.

Effect of Co-Administration of Panax ginseng and Brassica oleracea on Postmenopausal Osteoporosis in Ovariectomized Mice

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a common disorder resulting from increased osteoclastic activity. To determine the effect of Panax ginseng on postmenopausal osteoporosis, ovariectomized (OVX) mice were treated with 500 mg/kg/day P. ginseng extract (Pg) alone or in combination with hot water extract of Brassica oleracea (Bo) daily for 10 weeks, and the effect of the treatments on OVX-induced bone loss was examined. Bone weight, bone mineral density (BMD), osteoclast (OC) formation, OC marker expression, and biochemical parameters in blood were determined. OVX significantly increased body weight and decreased bone weight compared with those in the Sham group (p < 0.01). Pg or Bo alone did not affect OVX-induced bone loss, but a combination of Pg and Bo (Pg:Bo) recovered bone weight. The bones of OVX mice showed lower BMD than that of Sham mice, and the Pg:Bo = 3:1 restored the decreased BMD. Single treatment with Pg or Bo did not alter OC formation; however, the Pg:Bo = 3:1 inhibited OC formation. In addition, Pg and Bo lowered the OVX-induced elevation in blood glucose level. Thus, we suggest that Pg in combination with proper materials, such as Bo, might be a potential candidate treatment with minimal side effects protect against postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Sulforaphane alters the acidification of the yeast vacuole

Sulforaphane (SFN) is a compound [1-isothiocyanato-4-(methylsulfinyl)-butane] found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables that is currently of interest because of its potential as a chemopreventive and a chemotherapeutic drug. Recent studies in a diverse range of cellular and animal models have shown that SFN is involved in multiple intracellular pathways that regulate xenobiotic metabolism, inflammation, cell death, cell cycle progression, and epigenetic regulation. In order to better understand the mechanisms of action behind SFN-induced cell death, we undertook an unbiased genome wide screen with the yeast knockout (YKO) library to identify SFN sensitive (SFN^S) mutants. The mutants were enriched with knockouts in genes linked to vacuolar function suggesting a link between this organelle and SFN's mechanism of action in yeast. Our subsequent work revealed that SFN increases the vacuolar pH of yeast cells and that varying the vacuolar pH can alter the sensitivity of yeast cells to the drug. In fact, several mutations that lower the vacuolar pH in yeast actually made the cells resistant to SFN (SFN^R). Finally, we show that human lung cancer cells with more acidic compartments are also SFN^R suggesting that SFN's mechanism of action identified in yeast may carry over to higher eukaryotic cells.

Functional Ingredients From Brassicaceae Species: Overview and Perspectives

Brassicaceae vegetables are important crops consumed worldwide due to their unique flavor, and for their broadly recognized functional properties, which are directly related to their phytochemical composition. Isothiocyanates (ITC) are the most characteristic compounds, considered responsible for their pungent taste. Besides ITC, these vegetables are also rich in carotenoids, phenolics, minerals, and vitamins. Consequently, Brassica's phytochemical profile makes them an ideal natural source for improving the nutritional quality of manufactured foods. In this sense, the inclusion of functional ingredients into food matrices are of growing interest. In the present work, Brassicaceae ingredients, functionality, and future perspectives are reviewed.

The “Green” FMOs: Diversity, Functionality and Application of Plant Flavoproteins

Flavin-dependent monooxygenases (FMOs) are ancient enzymes present in all kingdoms of life. FMOs typically catalyze the incorporation of an oxygen atom from molecular oxygen into small molecules. To date, the majority of functional characterization studies have been performed on mammalian, fungal and bacterial FMOs, showing that they play fundamental roles in drug and xenobiotic metabolism. By contrast, our understanding of FMOs across the plant kingdom is very limited, despite plants possessing far greater FMO diversity compared to both bacteria and other multicellular organisms. Here, we review the progress of plant FMO research, with a focus on FMO diversity and functionality. Significantly, of the FMOs characterized to date, they all perform oxygenation reactions that are crucial steps within hormone metabolism, pathogen resistance, signaling and chemical defense. This demonstrates the fundamental role FMOs have within plant metabolism, and presents significant opportunities for future research pursuits and downstream applications.

Comparative Analysis of the Metabolic Profiles of Yellow- versus Black-Seeded Rapeseed Using UPLC-HESI-MS/MS and Transcriptome Analysis

The high levels of secondary metabolites in rapeseed play important roles in determining the oil quality and feeding value. Here, we characterized the metabolic profiles in seeds of various yellow- and black-seeded rapeseed accessions. Two hundred and forty-eight features were characterized, including 31 phenolic acids, 54 flavonoids, 24 glucosinolates, 65 lipid compounds, and 74 other polar compounds. The most abundant phenolic acids and various flavonoids (epicatechin, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, quercetin, and their derivatives) were widely detected and showed significant differences in distribution between the yellow- and black-seeded rapeseed. Furthermore, the related genes (e.g., BnTT3, BnTT18, BnTT10, BnTT12, and BnBAN) involved in the proanthocyanidin pathway had lower expression levels in yellow-seeded rapeseed, strongly suggesting that the seed coat color could be mainly determined by the levels of epicatechin and their derivatives. These results improve our understanding of the primary constituents of rapeseed and lay the foundation for breeding novel varieties with a high nutritional value.

Organic Isothiocyanates as Hydrogen Sulfide Donors

Significance: Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), the "new entry" in the series of endogenous gasotransmitters, plays a fundamental role in regulating the biological functions of various organs and systems. Consequently, the lack of adequate levels of H₂S may represent the etiopathogenetic factor of multiple pathological alterations. In these diseases, the use of H₂S donors represents a precious and innovative opportunity. Recent Advances: Natural isothiocyanates (ITCs), sulfur compounds typical of some botanical species, have long been investigated because of their intriguing pharmacological profile. Recently, the ITC moiety has been proposed as a new H₂S-donor chemotype (with a l-cysteine-mediated reaction). Based on this recent discovery, we can clearly observe that almost all the effects of natural ITCs can be explained by the H₂S release. Consistently, the ITC function was also used as an original H₂S-releasing moiety for the design of synthetic H₂S donors and original "pharmacological hybrids." Very recently, the chemical mechanism of H₂S release, resulting from the reaction between l-cysteine and some ITCs, has been elucidated. Critical Issues: Available literature gives convincing demonstration that H₂S is the real player in ITC pharmacology. Further, countless studies have been carried out on natural ITCs, but this versatile moiety has been used only rarely for the design of synthetic H₂S donors with optimal drug-like properties. Future Directions: The development of more ITC-based synthetic H₂S donors with optimal drug-like properties and selectivity toward specific tissues/pathologies seem to represent a stimulating and indispensable prospect of future experimental activities.

Effect of pretreatment on bioactive compounds in wild rocket juice

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of pretreatment with hot water or steaming on glucosinolates, polyphenols contents and antioxidant capacity in obtained raw juices. Moreover, in vitro cytotoxic activity of the raw juice to the cells derived from the gastrointestinal tract, including the small intestine (IEC-6 cell line), colon (Caco-2 cell line) and the liver (HepG2 cell line) were also investigated. The dominant glucosinolates in the wild rocket leaves were glucoraphanin (36%) and dimeric 4-mercaptobutyl (30%), followed by glucosativin and glucoerucin, 11% per each. Glucothiobeinin (6%), glucobrassicin (1%), 4-methoxyglucobrassicin (1%) and two unidentified compounds (4%) were also detected in rocket leaves. In terms of phenolic compounds, quercetin constituted the majority (55%) and the rest composed of hydroxycinnamic acids. In raw juices produced from steamed, pretreatment with hot water and untreated (control) leaves, glucosinolate contents were lower about 21%, 37% and 53%, respectively, than their levels in the raw material. The highest content of polyphenols among the juices tested (45.4 mg/100 g fresh weight) and antioxidant capacity (5.8 µmol Trolox/1 g f.w.) was recorded in the raw juice from pretreated leaves with hot water. The wild rocket raw juice concentrations responsible for a 50% reduction in Caco-2 and HepG2 cell viability were estimated at 1.87 ± 0.08 mg/mL and 3.54 ± 0.29 mg/mL. The viability of the IEC-6 cells was reduced by only 19.04%, at the maximum concentration (3.6 mg/mL) of the raw juice.

Brassicaphenanthrene A from Brassica rapa protects HT22 neuronal cells through the regulation of Nrf2‑mediated heme oxygenase‑1 expression

Brain cell damage that results from oxidative toxicity contributes to neuronal degeneration. The transcription factor nuclear factor‑E2‑related factor 2 (Nrf2) regulates the expression of heme oxygenase (HO)‑1 and glutathione (GSH), and serves a key role in the pathogenesis of neurological diseases. Brassica rapa is a turnip that is unique to Ganghwa County, and is used mainly for making kimchi, a traditional Korean food. In the current study, brassicaphenanthrene A (BrPA) from B. rapa was demonstrated to exhibit protective effects against neurotoxicity induced by glutamate via Nrf2‑mediated HO‑1 expression. Similarly, BrPA increased the expression of cellular glutathione and glutamine‑cysteine ligase genes. Furthermore, BrPA caused the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and increased antioxidant response element (ARE) promoter activity. Nrf2 also mediated HO‑1 induction by BrPA through the PI3K/Akt and JNK regulatory pathways. The results of the present study indicated the neuroprotective effect of BrPA, a natural food component from B. rapa.

An Appraisal of Developments in Allium Sulfur Chemistry: Expanding the Pharmacopeia of Garlic

Alliums and allied plant species are rich sources of sulfur compounds that have effects on vascular homeostasis and the control of metabolic systems linked to nutrient metabolism in mammals. In view of the multiple biological effects ascribed to these sulfur molecules, researchers are now using these compounds as inspiration for the synthesis and development of novel sulfur-based therapeutics. This research has led to the chemical synthesis and biological assessment of a diverse array of sulfur compounds representative of derivatives of S-alkenyl-l-cysteine sulfoxides, thiosulfinates, ajoene molecules, sulfides, and S-allylcysteine. Many of these synthetic derivatives have potent antimicrobial and anticancer properties when tested in preclinical models of disease. Therefore, the current review provides an overview of advances in the development and biological assessment of synthetic analogs of allium-derived sulfur compounds.

Profiling glucosinolate metabolites in human urine and plasma after broccoli consumption using non-targeted and targeted metabolomic analyses

Broccoli is a popular brassica vegetable and its consumption may decrease the occurrence of cancer in certain populations. To gain insight into the metabolites that may induce physiological responses to broccoli intake, a non-targeted metabolomic approach and a targeted approach for analysis of glucosinolate metabolites were developed using high resolution accurate mass spectrometry. A human study was conducted in which 6 subjects consumed a single meal of 200 g of uncooked broccoli florets. The metabolomic analysis revealed changes in endogenous metabolites and a decrease in hippuric acid after broccoli consumption. Targeted analysis using high-resolution, accurate mass-mass spectrometry (HRAM-MS) enabled detection of low concentrations (nM) of glucosinolate metabolites in human urine and plasma. Glucosinolate metabolites were found in human urine (13) and plasma (8), respectively. Metabolites from methoxyl-indole glucosinolates, arising from broccoli consumption, are reported for the first time. Most glucosinolate metabolites reached their peak concentration in urine 2-4 h after consumption while, in plasma, peak maxima were achieved 2 h after intake. The results suggest that glucoraphanin metabolites (sulforaphane, sulforaphane cysteine, sulforaphane N-acetyl cysteine) and indole metabolites (ascorbigen and methoxyl ascorbigen from indole glucosinolates) may serve as marker compounds for the intake of broccoli.

Are Raw Brassica Vegetables Healthier Than Cooked Ones? A Randomized, Controlled Crossover Intervention Trial on the Health-Promoting Potential of Ethiopian Kale

The present human intervention trial investigated the health-promoting potential of B. carinata, with a focus on effects of thermal processing on bioactivity. Twenty-two healthy subjects consumed a B. carinata preparation from raw (allyl isothiocyanate-containing) or cooked (no allyl isothiocyanate) leaves for five days in a randomized crossover design. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were exposed to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), with or without metabolic activation using human S9 mix, and subsequently analyzed for DNA damage using the comet assay. Plasma was analyzed for total antioxidant capacity and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) levels. Cooked B. carinata significantly reduced DNA damage induced by AFB1 as compared to baseline levels (+S9 mix: 35%, -S9 mix: 33%, p ≤ 0.01, respectively). Raw B. carinata only reduced DNA damage by S9-activated AFB1 by 21% (p = 0.08). PGE₂ plasma levels were significantly reduced in subjects after consuming raw B. carinata. No changes in plasma antioxidant capacity were detectable. A balanced diet, including raw and cooked Brassica vegetables, might be suited to fully exploit the health-promoting potential. These results also advocate the promotion of B. carinata cultivation in Eastern Africa as a measure to combat effects of unavoidable aflatoxin exposure.

Preventing childhood and lifelong disability: Maternal dietary supplementation for perinatal brain injury

The majority of brain injuries that lead to cerebral palsy, developmental disability, and mental health disorders have their onset in utero. These lifelong conditions come with great economic and emotional burden as they impact function in nearly all domains of affected individuals' lives. Unfortunately, current therapeutic options are limited. There remains a focus on rescue, rehabilitation, and regeneration after the injury has occurred, rather than aiming to prevent the initial injury. Prevention would imply treating the mother during pregnancy to alter the fetal environment and in turn, treat the fetus. Fear of harming the developing fetus remains as a result of errors of the past such as the release of thalidomide. In this review, we outline evidence from animal studies and clinical trials that have explored maternal dietary supplementation with natural health products (including nutraceuticals and functional foods) for perinatal brain injury prevention. Namely, we discuss magnesium sulphate, creatine, choline, melatonin, resveratrol and broccoli sprouts/sulforaphane. Although clinical trials have only been completed in this realm for magnesium sulphate, results in animal models have been promising, suggesting that this is a productive avenue for further research. Natural health products may provide safe, effective, affordable, and easily accessible prevention of fetal brain injury and resulting lifelong disabilities.

Evaluation of Biodistribution of Sulforaphane after Administration of Oral Broccoli Sprout Extract in Melanoma Patients with Multiple Atypical Nevi

Broccoli sprout extract containing sulforaphane (BSE-SFN) has been shown to inhibit ultraviolet radiation-induced damage and tumor progression in skin. This study evaluated the toxicity and potential effects of oral BSE-SFN at three dosages. Seventeen patients who each had at least 2 atypical nevi and a prior history of melanoma were randomly allocated to 50, 100, or 200 μmol oral BSE-SFN daily for 28 days. Atypical nevi were photographed on days 1 and 28, and plasma and nevus samples were taken on days 1, 2, and 28. Endpoints assessed were safety, plasma and skin sulforaphane levels, gross and histologic changes, IHC for phospho-STAT3(Y705), Ki-67, Bcl-2, HMOX1, and TUNEL, plasma cytokine levels, and tissue proteomics. All 17 patients completed 28 days with no dose-limiting toxicities. Plasma sulforaphane levels pooled for days 1, 2, and 28 showed median postadministration increases of 120 ng/mL for 50 μmol, 206 ng/mL for 100 μmol, and 655 ng/mL for 200 μmol. Median skin sulforaphane levels on day 28 were 0.0, 3.1, and 34.1 ng/g for 50, 100, and 200 μmol, respectively. Plasma levels of proinflammatory cytokines decreased from day 1 to 28. The tumor suppressor decorin was increased from day 1 to 28. Oral BSE-SFN is well tolerated at daily doses up to 200 μmol and achieves dose-dependent levels in plasma and skin. A larger efficacy evaluation of 200 μmol daily for longer intervals is now reasonable to better characterize clinical and biological effects of BSE-SFN as chemoprevention for melanoma. Cancer Prev Res; 11(7); 429-38. ©2018 AACR.

Antitumor activity of Lepidium latifolium and identification of the epithionitrile 1-cyano-2,3-epithiopropane as its major active component

Consumption of Brassica (Cruciferae) vegetables is associated with a reduced risk of cancer, but identification of the active components and insights into the underlying molecular events are scarce. Here we found that an extract of Lepidium latifolium, a cruciferous plant native to southern Europe, Mediterranean countries and Asia, showed in vitro cytotoxic activity, inducing caspase-dependent apoptosis, in a variety of human tumor cells, and the plant juice showed in vivo antitumor activity in a HT-29 human colon cancer xenograft mouse model. The epithionitrile 1-cyano-2,3-epithiopropane (CETP) was identified as the major active cancer cell-killing principle of L. latifolium. Synthetic and plant-derived CETP displayed similar proapoptotic activities as assessed by biochemical and morphological analyses. Analysis of the antiproliferative capacity of CETP on a wide number of cancer cell lines from the NCI-60 cell line panel followed by COMPARE analysis, showed an activity profile different from known anticancer agents. Flow cytometry and biochemical analyses revealed that CETP-induced apoptosis involved mitochondria, as assessed by loss of mitochondrial transmembrane potential and generation of reactive oxygen species, while overexpression of Bcl-X_L and Bcl-2 prevented CETP-induced apoptosis. Inhibition of reactive oxygen species by glutathione and N-acetyl cysteine reduced the apoptotic response induced by CETP. FADD dominant negative form, blocking Fas/CD95 signaling, and a specific caspase-8 inhibitor also inhibited CETP-induced killing. Taken together, our data suggest that the cancer cell-killing action of CETP, involving both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic signaling pathways, underlies the antitumor activity of L. latifolium plant, which could be of potential interest in cancer treatment.

Brassica-Derived Plant Bioactives as Modulators of Chemopreventive and Inflammatory Signaling Pathways

A high consumption of vegetables belonging to the Brassicaceae family has been related to a lower incidence of chronic diseases including different kinds of cancer. These beneficial effects of, e.g., broccoli, cabbage or rocket (arugula) intake have been mainly dedicated to the sulfur-containing glucosinolates (GLSs)-secondary plant compounds nearly exclusively present in Brassicaceae-and in particular to their bioactive breakdown products including isothiocyanates (ITCs). Overall, the current literature indicate that selected Brassica-derived ITCs exhibit health-promoting effects in vitro, as well as in laboratory mice in vivo. Some studies suggest anti-carcinogenic and anti-inflammatory properties for ITCs which may be communicated through an activation of the redox-sensitive transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) that controls the expression of antioxidant and phase II enzymes. Furthermore, it has been shown that ITCs are able to significantly ameliorate a severe inflammatory phenotype in colitic mice in vivo. As there are studies available suggesting an epigenetic mode of action for Brassica-derived phytochemicals, the conduction of further studies would be recommendable to investigate if the beneficial effects of these compounds also persist during an irregular consumption pattern.

Glucosinolate Profiles in Cabbage Genotypes Influence the Preferential Feeding of Diamondback Moth (Plutella xylostella)

Diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella L., is a devastating pest of cabbage worldwide whose feeding attributes are influenced by glucosinolate profiles of the plant. Identifying the specific glucosinolates associated with plants' resistance mechanism can provide cues to novel points of intervention in developing resistant cultivars. We studied the DBM larval feeding preference and extent of damage on cabbage leaves via controlled glass-house and in vitro multiple- and two-choice feeding tests. These feeding attributes were associated with the individual glucosinolate profiles, analyzed by HPLC, of each of the eight cabbage genotypes using multivariate analytical approach to identify the glucosinolates that may have roles in resistance. Both the glass-house and in vitro multiple-choice feeding tests identified the genotype BN4303, BN4059, and BN4072 as the least preferred (resistant) and Rubra, YR Gold and BN3383 as most preferred (susceptible) genotypes by DBM larvae. The principal component analysis separated the genotypes based on lower feeding scores in association with higher contents of glucobrassicin, glucoiberin, glucoiberverin in one direction and 4-hydroxyglucobrassicin, glucoerucin, glucoraphanin, and progoitrin in opposite direction in a way to explain the major variation in resistant versus susceptible genotypes based on their extent of preference and leaf area damage. The simultaneous presence (or higher contents) of glucobrassicin, glucoiberin, and glucoiberverin and the absence (or lower contents) of 4-hydroxyglucobrassicin, glucoerucin, glucoraphanin, and progoitrin in the least preferred genotypes and vice-versa in most preferred genotypes indicated their apparent role as putative repellents and attractants of DBM larvae in cabbage genotypes, respectively. These novel findings add to the current knowledgebase on the roles of glucosinolates in plant-herbivore interactions and will be helpful in setting breeding priorities for improving the resistance against DBM in cabbage using conventional and biotechnological approaches.

Two likely targets for the anti-cancer effect of indole derivatives from cruciferous vegetables: PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor

Diets containing high quantities of plant foods are linked with a decreased likelihood of incidence of cancer. Several common plant-based dietary components exert effects on DNA methylation levels, and can positively influence genome stability and the transcription of tumor suppressors and oncogenes. Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is a substance present in vegetables of the Brassicaeae family, especially broccoli, white cabbage, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower. The in vivo biological effects of I3C are ascribed to a series of oligomeric products (including 3,3'-diindolylmethane), developed under acidic conditions. I3C is one of the many natural products and bioactive compounds found in foods which have recently received much attention for its potential effects in cancer prevention and treatment. In vitro studies report that I3C suppresses the proliferation of different tumor cells, including those isolated from breast, prostate, endometrium, and colon cancers. I3C resulted to be a potent in vivo chemopreventive agent for certain hormone-dependent cancers, including breast and cervical cancer. However, the mechanisms underlying these effects are not well defined. In this review, we have analysed recent literature on the use of indole derivatives against various forms of cancer, and have identified the main signalling pathways involved in their anti-cancer effect as PI3K/Akt/mTOR and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor.

Characterization of phenolics, glucosinolates and antioxidant activity of beverages based on apple juice with addition of frozen and freeze-dried curly kale leaves (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala L.)

The aim of this study was to determine the polyphenols, glucosinolates and ascorbic acid content as well as antioxidant activity of beverages on the base of apple juice with addition of frozen and freeze-dried curly kale leaves. Upon enrichment with frozen (13%) and freeze-dried curly kale (3%), the naturally cloudy apple juice was characterized by an increase in phenolic compounds by 2.7 and 3.3-times, accordingly. The antioxidant activity of beverages with the addition of curly kale ranged from 6.6 to 9.4μmol Trolox/mL. The obtained beverages were characterized glucosinolates content at 117.6-167.6mg/L and ascorbic acid content at 4,1-31,9mg/L. The results of sensory evaluation of colour, taste and consistency of apple juice and beverages with the addition of kale did not differ significantly prior to pasteurization (P≤0.05), whereas after the pasteurization the evaluated factors decreased significantly.

Identification and Quantification of Glucosinolates in Kimchi by Liquid Chromatography-Electrospray Tandem Mass Spectrometry

A novel and simple method for detecting five glucosinolates (glucoalyssin, gluconapin, glucobrassicanapin, glucobrassicin, and 4-methoxyglucobrassicin) in kimchi was developed using liquid chromatography-electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The chromatographic peaks of the five glucosinolates were successfully identified by comparing their retention times, mass spectra. The mobile phase was composed of A (acetonitrile) and B (water). As for glucosinolate, the relative quantities were found through sinigrin, and five different compounds that have not been previously discovered in kimchi were observed. Monitoring was carried out on the glucosinolate in 20 kimchis distributed in markets, and this study examined the various quality and quantity compositions of the five components. The glucoalyssin content ranged from 0.00 to 7.07 μmol/g of day weight (DW), with an average content of 0.86 μmol/g of DW, whereas the gluconapin content ranged from 0.00 to 5.85 μmol/g of DW, with an average of 1.17 μmol/g of DW. The content of glucobrassicanapin varied between 0.00 and 11.87 μmol/g of DW (average = 3.03 μmol/g of DW), whereas that of glucobrassicin varied between 0.00 and 0.42 μmol/g of DW (average = 0.06 μmol/g of DW). The 4-methoxyglucobrassicin content ranged from 0.12 to 9.36 μmol/g of DW (average = 3.52 μmol/g of DW). A comparison of the contents revealed that, in most cases, the content of 4-methoxyglucobrassicin was the highest.