Sulforaphane Mobilizes Cellular Defenses That Protect Skin Against Damage by UV Radiation

In 2007, researchers found that sulforaphane (SF), a compound from broccoli sprout extracts (BSE), can protect against UV radiation damage. The study included experiments on mice and a human trial with six participants (three males and three females, aged 28-53), which showed a mean reduction in UV-induced erythema of 37.7%. SF's protective effects were attributed to the activation of protective enzymes rather than UV absorption, and these effects lasted for several days. The study concluded that SF could be a potential strategy for skin cancer prevention, offering long-lasting protection without affecting vitamin D synthesis. The human studies were approved by the Institutional Review Board, and the animal studies complied with guidelines approved by the Animal Care and Use Committee.