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#029 Jed Fahey, Sc.D. on Isothiocyanates, the Nrf2 Pathway, Moringa & Sulforaphane Supplementation
Episode guests
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Sulforaphane, a compound found in cruciferous vegetables, has diverse biochemical pathways and properties that make it an exciting potential dietary approach for disease prevention.
- Sulforaphane exhibits anti-inflammatory effects and shows promise in reducing colonization levels of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with ulcers and stomach cancer.
- Sulforaphane has been studied for its therapeutic potential in conditions like autism, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease, showing promising results in reducing symptoms.
- Sulforaphane's ability to activate the NRF2 pathway and inhibit URIase in the stomach contribute to its health benefits.
- Moringa, a versatile plant rich in protein and micronutrients, has the potential to be a valuable dietary intervention in developing nations.
Deep dives
Effects of Isothyosinates on Health
Isothyosinates, specifically sulphuripane, have various health benefits. They have been linked to reduced cancer risk, reduced inflammation, and protection against air pollution. Sulphuripane has been studied in relation to neurological disorders, such as autism and Alzheimer's disease, as well as heart disease and DNA damage. The Coleman Kimo Protection Center at John's Hopkins is a prominent research institution in this field, facilitating numerous studies on sulphuripane. Donations to the center support research on autism, schizophrenia, breast cancer prevention, and air pollution injury.
Discovery of Glucorapinin and Sulphurpane
Glucorapinin and sulphuripane are compounds found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables. Sulphuripane was discovered as a potent inducer of protective enzymes, specifically the NRF2 pathway. Glucorapinin is the precursor to sulphuripane and is more stable. Brockley sprouts were found to have higher levels of glucorapinin than mature plants. Myrosinase, an enzyme found in brockley, converts glucorapinin to sulphuripane. Sulphuripane's ability to activate NRF2 and its inhibition of URIase in the stomach are notable findings.
Reducing H. pylori Colonization and Inflammation
Sulphuripane has shown promise in reducing colonization levels of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacterium associated with ulcers and stomach cancer. It was found to lower markers of inflammation and inhibit H. pylori growth. As sulphuripane demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects, it offers potential benefits for reducing systemic inflammation. Further research is underway to explore the impact of sulphuripane on processes related to aging and lifespan, including studies on centenarians and model organisms. Probiotics containing myrosinase-producing strains are also being investigated for enhanced sulphuripane metabolism and potential health benefits.
Potential Anti-Aging Effects of Sulphuripane
Sulphuripane's role in reducing inflammation and activating NRF2 pathways suggests potential anti-aging effects. Studies have shown that sulphuripane can extend the lifespan of red flower beetles through NRF2 activation. Additionally, sulphuripane has been associated with lower levels of inflammation and oxidative stress, factors contributing to the aging process. Research on lifespan extension in model organisms, such as C. elegans, is being explored. Despite ongoing studies and anecdotes, the full impact of sulphuripane on aging and lifespan is yet to be determined.
Sulforaphane and Therapeutic Windows
Sulforaphane, a compound found in cruciferous vegetables, has been studied for its therapeutic potential. Researchers are particularly interested in finding compounds with larger therapeutic windows, especially in the context of diseases like Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS) which is characterized by accelerated aging. HGPS is associated with increased levels of progerin, a sticky protein that binds to NRF2 (a protein involved in cellular signaling) and affects its function. Sulforaphane is being explored as a potential compound to enhance NRF2 levels and improve clearance of progerin from the nucleus. While the specific mechanisms are still unclear, this area of research holds promise for potential therapeutic interventions.
Sulforaphane and Autism
Inflammation has been identified as a significant factor in conditions like autism, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease. Sulforaphane has shown anti-inflammatory properties and has been suggested to potentially aid in alleviating symptoms of these conditions. Clinical trials exploring the effects of sulforaphane on autism have shown promising results, with a significant reduction in symptoms observed in some subjects. Ongoing research is being conducted to further investigate the potential of sulforaphane in improving the quality of life for individuals with autism.
Sulforaphane and Disease Prevention
Sulforaphane's diverse biochemical pathways and properties make it an intriguing compound for disease prevention. Studies have shown it to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. It has been found to inhibit the NF-kappa B pathway, a major pathway involved in inflammation in the body. Additionally, sulforaphane has been shown to enhance the heat shock response, which helps repair and prevent protein aggregation associated with neurodegenerative diseases. While more research is needed, the potential of sulforaphane as a dietary approach for disease prevention is an exciting prospect.
Moringa production and challenges
Moringa, a versatile plant, is produced in countries like Africa and the United States. While there are responsible companies producing maringa in Africa, there are also multi-level marketing companies making unsubstantiated claims about its benefits. Consumers need to be cautious and seek reliable sources when purchasing maringa products.
Moringa's potential health benefits
Moringa is rich in protein and micronutrients, making it a potential dietary intervention in developing nations. Its leaves are drought-resistant and have a longer shelf life compared to other leafy green vegetables. In India, it is widely consumed, and its dried, powdered leaves are used in various food products. While clinical trials on moringa's nutritional benefits are limited, its use in combating inflammation and reducing the risk of strokes and certain cancers shows promise.
Dr. Jed Fahey is a multi-decade veteran of isothiocyanate research and is the director of the Cullman Chemoprotection Center at Johns Hopkins University.
In this episode, you'll discover:
- (00:00) Introduction
- (03:44) What is sulforaphane?
- (10:25) The NRF2 pathway, a master regulator of antioxidants
- (14:22) Cruciferous vegetables are rich sources of sulforaphane
- (20:39) Does cooking broccoli destroy sulforaphane?
- (26:00) Sulforaphane supplements vary widely in quality
- (36:41) Antibiotics wipe out sulforaphane-producing bacteria in the gut
- (46:44) Managing Helicobacter pylori growth with a sulforaphane-rich diet
- (56:15) Sulforaphane reduces inflammation, but does it extend lifespan?
- (01:11:31) The therapeutic potential of sulforaphane for autism spectrum disorders, Alzheimer's disease, and schizophrenia
- (01:22:44) Research challenges and clinical trials
- (01:30:51) Is sulforaphane an anti-depressant?
- 01:34:50 - Moringin from moringa may be an alternative to sulforaphane with similar bioaction
- (01:53:55) How to maximize sulforaphane conversion
- (02:13:27) Testing the anticancer power of sulforaphane
If you’re interested in learning more, you can read the full show notes here.
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