An Appraisal of Developments in Allium Sulfur Chemistry: Expanding the Pharmacopeia of Garlic

Abstract

Alliums and allied plant species are rich sources of sulfur compounds that have effects on vascular homeostasis and the control of metabolic systems linked to nutrient metabolism in mammals. In view of the multiple biological effects ascribed to these sulfur molecules, researchers are now using these compounds as inspiration for the synthesis and development of novel sulfur-based therapeutics. This research has led to the chemical synthesis and biological assessment of a diverse array of sulfur compounds representative of derivatives of S-alkenyl-l-cysteine sulfoxides, thiosulfinates, ajoene molecules, sulfides, and S-allylcysteine. Many of these synthetic derivatives have potent antimicrobial and anticancer properties when tested in preclinical models of disease. Therefore, the current review provides an overview of advances in the development and biological assessment of synthetic analogs of allium-derived sulfur compounds.

Prevailing Knowledge on the Bioavailability and Biological Activities of Sulphur Compounds from Alliums: A Potential Drug Candidate

“…The organosulphur compounds from garlic demonstrate an antimicrobial effect. Even though numerous medicinal plants exist, garlic has a specific antimicrobial property to protect the host from pathogens [ 9 , 10 , 11 ]. Garlic is more effective with fewer side effects compared to available antibiotics in the market.…”

Hydrogen Sulfide: From a Toxic Molecule to a Key Molecule of Cell Life

“…Several extracts from the genus Allium, mainly onion and garlic, and their derivatives have been used since ancient times in China as medicines to treat numerous diseases, including cancer [192], cardiovascular disease [193] and other diseases. It is known that these extracts are a source of sulfur-containing flavor compounds such as diallyl sulfide, allicin and cycloalliin, among others, and which release H 2 S in cells upon interaction with reductants [194,195].…”

Chemistry and Biochemistry of Sulfur Natural Compounds: Key Intermediates of Metabolism and Redox Biology

“…Forms of sulfur compounds relevant to human nutrition are present in foods such as garlic, onion, and broccoli. Yet, the ingestion of these forms of sulfur compounds is very important for human health since it provides many antioxidants and immunomodulating substances that are useful to maintain an adequate physiological function of most body organs [ 52 ]. Garlic ( Allium sativum ) is the perfect example of bioactive sulfur compound (antioxidant and antibacterial molecules) intake with the diet.…”