A critical review of the bioavailability of glucosinolates and related compounds

Birgit Holst^a and Gary Williamson^b

^a Nestlé Research Center, Vers-Chez-Les-Blanc, PO Box 44, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
E-mail: birgit.holst@rdls.nestle.com
Fax: + 41 21 785 8544
Tel: + 41 21 785 8098

^b Nestlé Research Center, Vers-Chez-Les-Blanc, PO Box 44, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
E-mail: gary.williamson@rdls.nestle.com
Fax: + 41 21 785 8544
Tel: + 41 21 785 8546

Abstract

Covering: until June 2003

Glucosinolates (GLSs) are relatively inert (Z)-N-hydroximinosulfate esters, possessing a sulfur-linked β-D-glucopyranose moiety and a variable side chain, found almost exclusively in cruciferous vegetables. Following cell disruption, they are hydrolysed by plant myrosinases, forming a group of chemically reactive and biologically active compounds. There is considerable evidence that these breakdown products, when consumed in the diet, may affect the risk of developing chronic diseases. However, in order for any compound to exert an activity in vivo, it is necessary to reach the site of action in an appropriate form and sufficient concentration. Deleterious and toxic effects may be observed at high concentrations; hence, bioavailability is a key factor defining the physiological, beneficial dose window of GLS hydrolysis products (GLS-HPs). For some GLS-HPs, this window can be rather narrow, and therefore is a critical parameter to be considered. In this review we critically evaluate the present state of knowledge on all factors that affect bioavailability of GLS-HPs. This includes liberation from the plant material, absorption from the digestive system, distribution around the body, metabolism and excretion.

Graphical abstract: A critical review of the bioavailability of glucosinolates and related compounds

Article information

https://doi.org/10.1039/B204039P

Article type

Review Article

Submitted

23 Dec 2003

First published

12 May 2004

Download Citation

Nat. Prod. Rep., 2004,21, 425-447

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