The potential role of S-allylcysteine as antioxidant against various disorders in animal models

Abstract

V. V. Sathibabu Uddandrao, Parim Brahmanaidu, Balaji Meriga, Ganapathy Saravanan

Successful regulation of cellular equilibrium among oxidation and anti-oxidation is significant for cellular function and DNA integrity as well as gene expression for signal transduction. Numerous pathological processes, such as cancer, diabetes, heart and/or kidney diseases, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, have been revealed to be associated to the redox state of cells. In a challenge to curtail the onset of oxidative stress, administration with diverse recognized antioxidants has been recommended. Glutathione (GSH) is accepted for its capability to reduce oxidative stress and downstream the harmful effects such as lipid peroxidation. Antioxidants thus play a significant part in protecting the human body against the damage caused by reactive oxygen species. S-Allylcysteine (SAC), a sulfur containing amino acid derived from garlic, has been experimentally demonstrated to possess antioxidant and other beneficial activities. In the present review, we addressed the therapeutic effects of SAC as a potential antioxidant on various disorders by increasing GSH and other antioxidants. Authenticated with a number of in vivo, in vitro, animal experiments and some human clinical trials, beneficial effects of SAC were reported in cancer, neurodegeneration, nephrotoxicity, ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction and other heart diseases, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, preeclampsia and diabetes mellitus. On the other hand, there is no scientific evidence against SAC for having adverse effects