Deciphering the therapeutic potential of Sinigrin: A promising anti-inflammatory agent for chronic disease management

Abstract

Background: Sinigrin, an aliphatic glucosinolate abundantly present in cruciferous vegetables, has garnered attention for its significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer properties, positioning it as a promising candidate for therapeutic development. Chronic inflammatory diseases-including asthma, ulcerative colitis, diabetes, and atherosclerosis-pose substantial challenges to modern medicine, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies. Sinigrin demonstrates remarkable efficacy in modulating critical signaling pathways, such as nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), effectively suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β). Moreover, its inherent antioxidant properties synergistically enhance its anti-inflammatory effects.

Purpose: This study aims to systematically explore the physicochemical properties, bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, and molecular mechanisms underpinning the anti-inflammatory activities of Sinigrin, with a specific focus on its therapeutic potential for chronic inflammatory diseases. By elucidating the mechanisms underlying the biological activities of Sinigrin, this work seeks to advance theoretical understanding, propose novel anti-inflammatory therapeutic strategies, and address potential safety concerns related to its toxicity.

Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar and SciFinder databases. The analysis primarily focused on English-language peer-reviewed articles published from 2006 to 2025, excluding non-peer-reviewed sources, irrelevant articles, older literature, and duplicates. Search terms included "Sinigrin", "Anti-inflammatory mechanisms", and "Chronic inflammatory diseases". The review prioritized studies investigating the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Sinigrin, its bioavailability, and safety profile, alongside emerging pharmacological advancements such as formulation optimization and nanotechnology-based delivery systems.

Results: The findings underscore the ability of Sinigrin to robustly regulate central signaling pathways, including NF-κB and MAPK, thereby effectively inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Its potent antioxidant activities further amplify its anti-inflammatory effects. Advances in formulation techniques and nanotechnology have markedly enhanced the bioavailability and therapeutic potential of Sinigrin. However, certain conditions can lead to its conversion into genotoxic metabolites, raising safety concerns regarding its long-term clinical application.

Conclusion: As a natural phytochemical with multifaceted pharmacological properties, Sinigrin holds significant promise in managing chronic inflammatory diseases. However, its potential toxicity must be rigorously addressed through comprehensive clinical research. Future investigations should focus on delineating its molecular mechanisms, broadening its therapeutic applications, and devising effective strategies to mitigate toxicity while ensuring its safety and efficacy in clinical practice.

Keywords: Anti-inflammatory mechanisms; Bioavailability; Chronic inflammatory diseases; Clinical safety; Sinigrin.