Broccoli extract: The health code of natural plant chemicals
Core functions and research progress
Anti-tumor potential
A study by Fudan University in 2025 found that sulforaphane can covalently modify the STAT1 protein, block the expression of the PD-L1 immune checkpoint in tumor cells, and increase the cytotoxic activity of CD8+ T cells by three times (Redox Biology, 2025). Preclinical trials have shown that its combination with CTLA-4 inhibitors can increase the tumor shrinkage rate to 60%.
Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protection
A team from the University of Sydney in Australia confirmed that sulforaphane can target and regulate platelet protein PDIA6, increasing the success rate of thrombolytic drug rt-PA from 20% to 60% without the risk of bleeding (ACS Central Science, 2024). Daily intake of 150μmol can reduce the risk of arterial thrombosis by 42%.
A randomized controlled trial conducted by the University of Gothenburg in Sweden showed that people with mild obesity and low insulin resistance had a 0.4mmol/L reduction in fasting blood glucose after taking broccoli sprout extract for 12 weeks, and the response was more significant in those with a higher abundance of Bacteroides BT2160 gene in the gut microbiota (Nature Microbiology, 2025).
From the laboratory to the dining table, broccoli extract is redefining preventive medicine as a "food-based drug". Its multi-functionality and safety make it a natural candidate for the prevention and control of chronic diseases.
