Thiosulfinates: cytotoxic and antitumor activity

Abstract

The pharmacological value of some natural compounds makes them attractive for use in oncology. Sulfur-containing thiosulfinates found in plants of the genus Allium have long been known as compounds with various therapeutic properties, including antitumor. In recent years, the effect of thiosulfinates on various stages of carcinogenesis has been actively studied. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that thiosulfinates inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells, as well as induce apoptosis. The purpose of this review is to summarize current data on the use of natural and synthetic thiosulfinates in cancer therapy. Antitumor mechanisms and molecular targets of these promising compounds are discussed. A significant part of the review is devoted to the consideration of a new strategy for the treatment of oncological diseases - the use of the method of directed enzyme prodrug therapy with the possibility of obtaining antitumor thiosulfinates in situ.