Search

Cytochrome P450 enzymes are responsible for the biotransformation and elimination of numerous xenobiotics, while they can also metabolically activate potential toxicants. As such, proper modulation on CYP450s provides a possible way to block chemical-induced toxicity. The biological benefits of garlic have been extensively studied, and the chemoprotective effects have been disclosed by using different garlic preparations including intermixtures as well as single components, in which the regulation on CYP450s (especially the inhibition of CYP2E1) is believed to be, at least partially, responsible for the chemoprotection. However, a number of studies also indicate the activation of several CYP450s (CYP3A, 2B and 1A1/2). As such, the concomitant use of the garlic products with some clinical drugs is questioned. Since most of the current data are obtained from experimental studies and the doses used are quite high, it is important to investigate the potential effects of garlic ingredients at lower doses. In addition, the dose- and time- dependent responses as well as much more clinical studies are needed. Furthermore, as the organosulfur compounds may work synergistically, it is of significance to investigate the potential effects of the commercially available garlic products (garlic oil, garlic powder, etc). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]