Sulforaphane Decrease of SERTAD1 Expression Triggers G1/S Arrest in Breast Cancer Cells

Studies have identified the potential of chemopreventive effects of sulforaphane (SFN); however, the underlying mechanisms of its effect on breast cancer require further elucidation. This study investigated the anticancer effects of SFN that specifically induces G1/S arrest in breast ductal carcinoma (ZR-75-1) cells. The proliferation of the cancer cells after treatment with SFN was detected by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. DNA content and cell cycle status were analyzed through flow cytometry. Our results demonstrated the inhibition of growth in ZR-75-1 cells upon SFN exposure. In addition, SERTAD1 (SEI-1) caused the accumulation of SFN-treated G1/S-phase cells. The downregulation of SEI-1, cyclin D2, and histone deacetylase 3 suggested that in addition to the identified effects of SFN against breast cancer prevention, it may also exert antitumor activities in established breast cancer cells. In conclusion, SFN can inhibit growth of and induce cell cycle arrest in cancer cells, suggesting its potential role as an anticancer agent.