title: Allyl sulfides modify cell growth.
abstract: Extensive evidence points to the ability of allyl sulfides from garlic to suppress tumor proliferation both in vitro and in vivo. This antineoplastic effect is generally greater for lipid-soluble than water-soluble allyl sulfides. Both concentration and duration of exposure can increase the antiproliferative effects of lipid- and water-soluble allyl sulfides. Part of their antiproliferative effects may relate to an increase in membrane fluidity and a suppression of integrin glycoprotein IIb-IIIa mediated adhesion. Alterations in cholesterol, arachidonic acid, phospholipids and/or thiols may account for these changes in membrane function. Allyl sulfides are also recognized for their ability to suppress cellular proliferation by blocking cells in the G2/M phase and by the induction of apoptosis. This increase in the G2/M and apoptotic cell populations correlates with depressed p34cdc2 kinase activity, increased histone acetylation, increased intracellular calcium and elevated cellular peroxide production. While impressive pre-clinical data exist about the antineoplastic effects of allyl sulfur compounds, considerably more attention needs to be given to their effects in humans. The composition of the entire diet and a host of genetic/epigenetic factors will likely determine the true benefits that might arise from allyl sulfur compounds from garlic and other Allium foods.
authors.affiliation: Nutrition Department, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, USA.
authors.forename: L M
authors.initials: LM
authors.lastname: Knowles
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Milner
mesh_terms: D000498:Allyl Compounds / Q000494:pharmacology*; D000818:Animals; D017209:Apoptosis / Q000187:drug effects; D002455:Cell Division / Q000187:drug effects; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000187:drug effects; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004285:Dogs; D005260:Female; D005511:Food Handling; D005737:Garlic / Q000737:chemistry; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D010946:Plants, Medicinal; D019039:Platelet Glycoprotein GPIIb-IIIa Complex / Q000187:drug effects; D012995:Solubility; D013440:Sulfides / Q000494:pharmacology*; D014407:Tumor Cells, Cultured / Q000187:drug effects
chemical_list: D000498:Allyl Compounds; D019039:Platelet Glycoprotein GPIIb-IIIa Complex; D013440:Sulfides