A number of phytochemicals synthesised by plants have important roles in pathogen defence. Many of these phytochemicals have been shown to be bioavailable in humans which means they may also play important roles in human health. Glucosinolates are a group of chemicals synthesised by Brassica family plants such as broccoli, cabbage, kale and cauliflower. During mechanical damage to parts of the plant, the glucosinolates are metabolised to three major groups of chemicals that are the nitriles, thiocyanates and isothiocyanates by the enzyme myrosinase. Evidence suggests that isothiocyanates play an important role in the protection of the plant from damage by fungus, and studies have shown that isothiocyanates have significant antifungal activity. The ability of myrosinase to convert glucosinolates to isothiocyanates in both pH and temperature dependent, and therefore the growing conditions of the plant can significantly affect its ability to withstand damage from fungal invasion within its tissues.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, protect Yourself
RdB
