Anticancer and Antioxidant Effects of Glucosinolates and Isothiocyanates Progress

OBJECTIVE To provide a full scientific view addressing to reasonable application of Glucosinolates (GLs) and isothiocyanates (ITCs) such as functional health product and anticancer drugs developments. METHODS Summarized the scientific literature about GLs and ITCs in past 10 years. And elaborating current knowledge on three aspects: Distribution in the plant; Physical and chemical properties; Anticancer and antioxidant mechanisms. RESULTS GLs and ITCs have favorable anti-cancer and anti-oxidant activities which can be applied to prevent and treat a variety of cancers. They are also effective for respiratory and lung diseases caused by air pollution. In addition, GLs and ITCs can eliminate the blood vessels free radicals to protect cardiovascular and anti-aging. CONCLUSION GLs and ITCs have broad market prospects to become health care products and assist cancer drugs.