Black Garlic and Cancer Prevention: A Promise from Nature

Black Garlic and Cancer Prevention: A Promise from Nature

Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality in the world. Research has shown how black garlic, thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, can act effectively in cancer prevention. Its bioactive compounds, such as S-allylcysteine (SAC) and S-allylmercaptocysteine (SAMC), are the focus of numerous scientific studies.

Oxidative stress and cancer

Oxidative stress, caused by an excess of free radicals, damages DNA and promotes mutations that can lead to the development of tumors. Black garlic helps neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from damage and reducing the risk of malignant transformation [Ahmed & Wang, 2021][Park et al., 2014].

Direct mechanisms: Apoptosis and proliferation blocking

The SAC and SAMC compounds in black garlic directly affect cancer cells by:

• Induction of apoptosis: SAC activates proteins such as Bax and caspase-3, promoting programmed cancer cell death [Park et al., 2014].
• Blocking proliferation: Black garlic inhibits the PI3K/AKT and NF-κB pathways, which are critical for cancer cell growth [Shin et al., 2010].

Indirect mechanisms: Inhibition of metastasis

Black garlic reduces the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 metalloproteinases, enzymes involved in the spread of cancer cells. In this way, it also acts on the prevention of metastasis [Ahmed & Wang, 2021].

Scientific evidence

Preclinical studies on colon, stomach and breast cancer cell lines show that black garlic extract reduces the proliferation of malignant cells and improves survival in animal models.

Thanks to these properties, black garlic is confirmed as a natural promise in cancer prevention, with potential applications also in the therapeutic field.

To learn more about the benefits of fermented black garlic, visit the Health section.

A heartfelt thanks to Dr. Valentina Vecchi for her contribution to black garlic research, to Prof. Monica Borgatti for the academic guidance and to the University of Ferrara for its constant commitment to scientific research.

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