PEITC

Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) is a naturally occurring isothiocyanate that is found in a variety of cruciferous vegetables, including watercress, broccoli, and cabbage. It is a member of the isothiocyanate family of compounds, which are known for their potential anticancer properties.

Chemical Structure

PEITC is a small molecule with the chemical formula C9H11NS. It consists of a phenethyl group attached to an isothiocyanate group. The phenethyl group is a two-carbon chain attached to a benzene ring, while the isothiocyanate group consists of a carbon atom double-bonded to a nitrogen atom and single-bonded to a sulfur atom.

Sources

PEITC is found in a variety of cruciferous vegetables, including watercress, broccoli, and cabbage. It is released when these vegetables are chopped, chewed, or digested, as a result of the breakdown of a compound called glucosinolate.

Health Benefits

PEITC has been studied for its potential anticancer properties. It has been found to inhibit the growth of various types of cancer cells in laboratory studies, including breast cancer, lung cancer, and prostate cancer cells. It is thought to work by inducing apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells.

In addition to its potential anticancer properties, PEITC has also been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It has been found to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules in laboratory studies, and it has been found to scavenge free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can cause damage to cells.

Safety and Toxicity

PEITC is generally considered safe when consumed in the amounts typically found in food. However, high doses of PEITC can cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In addition, there is some evidence that high doses of PEITC can cause liver damage in laboratory animals.

Research

Research into the potential health benefits of PEITC is ongoing. While laboratory studies have shown promising results, more research is needed to determine whether these results translate to humans.