Sulforaphane: A Broccoli Bioactive Phytocompound with Cancer Preventive Potential.

There is substantial and promising evidence on the health benefits of consuming broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables. The most important compound in broccoli, glucoraphanin, is metabolized to SFN by the thioglucosidase enzyme myrosinase. SFN is the major mediator of the health benefits that have been recognized for broccoli consumption. SFN represents a phytochemical of high interest as it may be useful in preventing the occurrence and/or mitigating the progression of cancer. Although several prior publications provide an excellent overview of the effect of SFN in cancer, these reports represent narrative reviews that focused mainly on SFN's source, biosynthesis, and mechanisms of action in modulating specific pathways involved in cancer without a comprehensive review of SFN's role or value for prevention of various human malignancies. This review evaluates the most recent state of knowledge concerning SFN's efficacy in preventing or reversing a variety of neoplasms. In this work, we have analyzed published reports based on in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies to determine SFN's potential as a chemopreventive agent. Furthermore, we have discussed the current limitations and challenges associated with SFN research and suggested future research directions before broccoli-derived products, especially SFN, can be used for human cancer prevention and intervention.

Characterization and Histological Examination of a Rare Giant Cell Glioblastoma.

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common malignant glial cell tumor of the brain. GBM typically occurs in the cerebral hemispheres and is characterized as a grade IV neoplasm due to its highly invasive nature. GBM can be subdivided into two subtypes, gliosarcoma and giant cell (GC) glioblastoma. While there are similarities between the subtypes, the biggest differences are the rate of occurrence with GC accounting for only 1% of cases, and the tendency of GC to occur more commonly in younger aged patients. In this case study, a GC neoplasm is documented in a 68-year-old male cadaver.

Gross and Histological Examination of a Large Spheno-Orbital Meningioma.

Meningiomas arise from arachnoid cap cells and are the most common heavily researched intracranial tumors. Most of these neoplasms are benign and are classified as World Health Organization (WHO) grade I. They are often found in parasagittal and falx regions, over cerebral convexities, and in the sphenoid ridges. Spheno-orbital meningiomas (SOMs) occupy the cranium and the orbit and are less commonly encountered. Nonetheless, in this case study, a 9.5 cm × 5 cm SOM occurring in a 93-year-old female cadaver was identified and examined. The tumor spanned from the left middle cranial fossa, through the anterior fossa and invaded the orbit. It caused proptosis of the left eye, compression of the temporal lobe, and damage to the optic nerve. Histological examination of the tumor revealed characteristics of a WHO grade I meningothelial meningioma.