it may not be so simple--repeated intake of broccoli--no sustained blood level of

[Lani]

of sulforophane

in the journal Cancer Letters

Repeated intake of broccoli does not lead to higher plasma levels of sulforaphane in human volunteers

Natalya Hanlona, Nick Coldhamb, Adriana Gielbertb, Maurice J. Sauerb and Costas Ioannidesa, ,

aMolecular Toxicology Group, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, UK

bMolecular Pathogenesis and Genetics Department, Veterinary Laboratories Agency-Weybridge, Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK


Abstract

The plasma pharmacokinetic characteristics of the chemopreventive isothiocyanate sulforaphane were determined in six human volunteers following single and repeated intake of raw broccoli. Initially, an analytical method utilising LC–MS/MS, capable of determining low levels of sulforaphane in human plasma was developed and validated. The plasma profile of the isothiocyanate best fitted a two-compartment pharmacokinetic model. Sulforaphane was rapidly absorbed with peak plasma levels being attained within 1.5 h, and was characterised by a long terminal elimination phase. Repeated intake of broccoli had no impact on the pharmacokinetic behaviour or plasma levels of sulforaphane, and there was no evidence of accumulation.