Another mechanism discovered by which sulforaphane prevents cancer

Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered how sulforaphane compounds provide not just one, but two ways to prevent cancer through the complex mechanism of epigenetics. Epigenetics refers to the way that diet, toxins and other forces can change which genes get activated. When sulforaphane was identified years ago as one of the most critical compounds that provide much of the health benefits in cruciferous vegetables, scientists identified a class of compounds called histone deacetylase, or HDAC, inhibitors. HDAC inhibitors can help restore proper balance and prevent the development of cancer. But, the new OSU studies have found a second epigenetic mechanism, DNA methylation, which plays a similar role. DNA methylation and HDAC inhibition, both influenced by sulforaphane, work in concert with each other to maintain proper cell function. DNA methylation is a normal process of turning off genes, and it helps control what DNA material gets read as part of genetic communication within cells.