Abstract
Background: Sulforaphane (SFN), an isothiocyanate derived from glucoraphanin in broccoli sprouts, has demonstrated chemopreventive properties against various cancers. However, its specific bioactivity in colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention remains incompletely understood. This study investigates the mechanisms and efficacy of SFN from broccoli sprouts in CRC chemoprevention.Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical and clinical studies (2001–2023) was conducted. Data on SFN bioavailability, modulation of carcinogenesis pathways, and effects on colorectal cancer cell lines and animal models were synthesized. Statistical analyses included random-effects models for pooled effect sizes.Results: SFN significantly inhibited CRC cell proliferation (IC50 range 5–20 µM) and induced apoptosis via Nrf2 activation and HDAC inhibition. In ApcMin/+ mice, SFN reduced intestinal polyposis by 40% (pConclusions: Sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts exhibits potent chemopreventive bioactivity against colorectal cancer through multiple molecular targets. These findings support dietary interventions with broccoli sprouts for CRC risk reduction.
Keywords
Sulforaphane, Broccoli sprouts, Colorectal cancer, Chemoprevention, Nrf2, HDAC inhibition, Glucoraphanin, Isothiocyanate