Molecules, Vol. 27, Pages 794: Phenylethyl Isothiocyanate: A Bioactive Agent for Gastrointestinal Health

Molecules, Vol. 27, Pages 794: Phenylethyl Isothiocyanate: A Bioactive Agent for Gastrointestinal Health Molecules doi: 10.3390/molecules27030794 Authors: Ezequiel R. Coscueta Ana Sofia Sousa Celso A. Reis Maria Manuela Pintado The incidence of gastrointestinal pathologies (cancer in particular) has increased progressively, with considerable morbidity and mortality, and a high economic impact on the healthcare system. The dietary intake of natural phytochemicals with certain bioactive properties has shown therapeutic and preventive effects on these pathologies. This includes the cruciferous vegetable derivative phenylethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), a bioactive compound present in some vegetables, such as watercress. Notably, PEITC has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, and anticarcinogenic properties. This review summarized the current knowledge on the role of PEITC as a potential natural nutraceutical or an adjuvant against oxidative/inflammatory-related disorders in the gastrointestinal tract. We also discussed the safe and recommended dose of PEITC. In addition, we established a framework to guide the research and development of sustainable methodologies for obtaining and stabilizing this natural molecule for industrial use. With PEITC, there is great potential to develop a viable strategy for preventing cancer and other associated diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. However, this topic still needs more scientific studies to help develop new PEIT...
Source: Molecules - Category: Chemistry Authors: Tags: Review Source Type: research