Antithrombotic activities of sulforaphane via inhibiting platelet aggregation and FIIa/FXa.

Sulforaphane (SFN), a natural isothiocyanate that is present in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage, is effective in preventing carcinogenesis, diabetes and inflammatory responses. Here, the anticoagulant activities of SFN were examined by monitoring activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), prothrombin time, and the activities of thrombin (Factor IIa, FIIa) and activated factor X (FXa). And, the effects of SFN on expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1) and tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) were evaluated in tumor necrosis factor-α activated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Treatment with SFN resulted in prolonged aPTT and PT and inhibition of the activities of thrombin and FXa, as well as inhibited production of thrombin and FXa in HUVECs. In addition, SFN inhibited thrombin-catalyzed fibrin polymerization and platelet aggregation. SFN also elicited anticoagulant effects in mice. In addition, treatment with SFN resulted in significant reduction of the PAI-1 to t-PA ratio. Collectively, SFN possesses antithrombotic activities and offers a basis for development of a novel anticoagulant.