ANTICANCER AND CHEMOPREVENTIVE EFFECTS OF ISOTHIOCYANATES DERIVED FROM CRUCIFEROUS VEGETABLES ON ONCOLOGICAL DISORDERS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Background: Cancer is a major global health concern, and increasing research suggests that dietary bioactive substances can affect carcinogenesis and tumour progression. Isothiocyanates (ITCs) are naturally occurring phytochemicals derived from glucosinolates found in cruciferous vegetables like garden cress, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and watercress. Sulforaphane (SFN), benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) and phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) have shown potential anticancer activity by modulating several cellular and molecular pathways. AIM This systematic review aimed to review the proposed biological mechanisms of these isothiocyanates and to assess the experimental evidence for their anticancer effects. Methods: A systematic literature search was carried out using PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, ResearchGate, and pertinent oncology and pharmacology publications. Studies published between 2009 and 2026 were reviewed. Result: a total of 415 records were identified. Seven Studies were designated for inclusion in the review. Conclusion: The existing experimental evidence indicates that isothiocyanates generated from cruciferous vegetables, particularly sulforaphane, benzyl isothiocyanate, and phenethyl isothiocyanate, have promising anticancer effects