Evaluation of the antimicrobial effects of several isothiocyanates on Helicobacter pylori.

The antibacterial activity of sulforaphane [4-(methylsulfinyl)butyl isothiocyanate] has been previously described. We have analysed the activities of 12 isothiocyanates (ITC) including sulphoraphane on 25 strains of Helicobacter pylori using an agar dilution assay. In addition, bactericidal effects against H.

Sulforaphane inhibits extracellular, intracellular, and antibiotic-resistant strains of Helicobacter pylori and prevents benzo[a]pyrene-induced stomach tumors.

Gastric infection with Helicobacter pylori is a cosmopolitan problem, and is especially common in developing regions where there is also a high prevalence of gastric cancer. These infections are known to cause gastritis and peptic ulcers, and dramatically enhance the risk of gastric cancer. Eradication of this organism is an important medical goal that is complicated by the development of resistance to conventional antimicrobial agents and by the persistence of a low level reservoir of H.