Garlic-derived bioactive compound S-allylcysteine inhibits cancer progression through diverse molecular mechanisms

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying the anticancer properties of S-allylcysteine (SAC). Over the decades, evidence derived from in vitro and in vivo studies has shown that this predominant organosulfur component of aged garlic extract has multiple anticancer properties; hence, some potential mechanisms responsible for the anticarcinogenic action have been suggested. These mechanisms include induction of carcinogen detoxification, inhibition of cell proliferation and growth, mediation of cell cycle arrest, induction of cell death, inhibition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cell invasion, suppression of metastasis, and induction of immunomodulation in cancer cells. However, the actions and mechanisms are not comprehensive, and important aspects of the anticancer activities of SAC still need to be explored. In light of the current evidence, more specific studies, specifically clinical and epidemiological, are required to advance the promising use of SAC as a chemopreventive and therapeutic agent in cancer.

Keywords: Apoptosis; Cancer; Cell Cycle; DNA methyltransferase; Garlic; S-allylcysteine.