Broccoli Extract Protects Against UV Radiation Damage

BALTIMORE —Scientists from John Hopkins University reported an extract of broccoli sprouts may protect the skin against the most abundant cancer-causing agent—ultraviolet (UV) radiation (Proc Natl Acad Sci USA.DOI:10.1073/pnas.0708710104). Unlike sunscreens, sulforaphane, the protective chemical agent found in broccoli sprout extract, does not absorb UV rays; instead, the extract increases the production of protective enzymes within the cells to defend against UV damage.

The team used animal and human models to evaluate sulforaphane’s effectiveness. Erythema, the reddening of the skin caused by UV radiation, and inflammation served as comprehensive and noninvasive biomarkers for assessing skin damage. Six human models, ages 28 to 53 years, were exposed six times with UV radiation combined with a high dose of topical three-day-old broccoli sprouts extract. The results demonstrated an average reduction of 37.7 percent, though the range varied considerably among the subjects ranging from 8 percent to 78 percent. Additionally, the extracts’ protective properties had a catalytic and long lasting effect, even after it was no longer present on or in the skin.

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