Invited Talk ESA-SRB-ANZBMS 2024 in conjunction with ENSA

Sulforaphane - a novel therapeutic and it’s clinical translation journey (#112)

Sarah Marshall 1 , Neville J Fields 1 2 , Emily Whalen 1 , Kirsten R Palmer 1 2
  1. The Ritchie Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton,, VIC, AUS
  2. Monash Health, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, VIC, AUS

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy specific disorder characterised by hypertension and end organ dysfunction that results in significant maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The widespread maternal endothelial dysfunction that underlies many of the manifestations of preeclampsia is thought to arise from excessive placental production of anti-angiogenic factors. Current therapies for preeclampsia, essentially antihypertensives, do not address the release of these factors or the resultant endothelial damage. Enhanced oxidative stress contributes to the impaired endothelial vasodilator function and enhanced vascular contraction characteristic of this disease. Consequently, the spotlight has fallen on antioxidants as a potential therapy. The natural antioxidant sulforaphane, found in cruciferous vegetables, is a potent phase II detoxification enzyme inducer promoting anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-viral effects. Our team has shown that sulforaphane can improve endothelial function and reduce placental oxidative stress in vitro. Now, our team is translating sulforaphane for use in pregnancy using various broccoli sprout extracts high in sulforaphane. Through this work, we are paving the way for a new, adjuvant therapy for the management of preeclampsia, one that addresses the underlying oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. Sulforaphane’s clinical translation may hold promise in reducing the burden of preeclampsia for women and their babies.