Mechanisms by which garlic and allyl sulfur compounds suppress carcinogen bioactivation. Garlic and carcinogenesis.

Abstract

Overall, a host of studies provides compelling evidence that garlic and its organic allyl sulfur components are effective inhibitors of the cancer process. These studies reveal that the benefits of garlic are not limited to a specific species, to a particular tissue, or to a specific carcinogen. Several mechanisms are likely to account for this protection. Notable among these is a depression in nitrosamine formation and a reduction in carcinogen bioactivation. The benefits provided by garlic must be viewed as part of the entire diet, since several dietary constituents can influence the degree of protection. More than one compound is responsible for the anticancer properties associated with garlic. Future research should focus on how genetic variability and daily environmental factors influence the anticancer benefits attributed to garlic and its allyl sulfur components.

• Authors: J A Milner
• Journal: Advances in experimental medicine and biology (Adv Exp Med Biol) Vol. 492 Pg. 69-81 ( 2001) ISSN: 0065-2598 [Print] United States
• PMID: 11480676 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S., Review)

Chemical References

• Allyl Compounds
• Anticarcinogenic Agents
• Antineoplastic Agents
• Nitrosamines
• Nitroso Compounds
• Sulfides
• Sulfur Compounds
• allyl sulfide

Topics

• Allyl Compounds (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Animals
• Anticarcinogenic Agents (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Antineoplastic Agents (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Diet
• Garlic (chemistry, physiology)
• Humans
• Immunocompetence
• Neoplasms (etiology, prevention & control)
• Nitrosamines (metabolism)
• Nitroso Compounds (adverse effects, metabolism)
• Phytotherapy
• Risk Factors
• Sulfides (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Sulfur Compounds (pharmacology, therapeutic use)