Indole-3-Carbinol

Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is a phytochemical derived from the breakdown of glucobrassicin in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. It has been studied for its potential anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. I3C modulates xenobiotic metabolism by inducing phase I and phase II detoxification enzymes, particularly through activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), leading to altered estrogen metabolism and increased production of less carcinogenic metabolites (e.g., 2-hydroxyestrone over 16α-hydroxyestrone). It also demonstrates free radical scavenging activity, particularly against reactive oxygen species such as hydroxyl and superoxide radicals, suggesting a role in oxidative stress reduction [1]. In preclinical models, I3C has shown antiproliferative effects in hormone-dependent cancers, including breast and prostate cancer, likely through cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis. Additionally, structural analogs of indole compounds, including melatonin-related indolamines, exhibit significant antioxidant activity via direct radical scavenging mechanisms, supporting the broader biological relevance of the indole scaffold . However, human clinical evidence remains limited, and most data are derived from in vitro and animal studies.