The Effect of a Sulforaphane and Maitake Mushroom Extract Combination on the Expression of NAD(P)H:Quinone Oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) and Glutathione S‐Transferase theta‐1 (GSTT1)

Humans are exposed to numerous environmental threats on a daily basis. Our bodies are able to naturally eliminate these toxins in a series of reactions catalyzed by Phase 1 and Phase 2 enzymes, which occur primarily in the liver. Phase 1 enzymes convert toxins into reactive intermediates which can diffuse through cell membranes and negatively interact with DNA, proteins, or lipids. These reactive intermediates are further modified by Phase 2 enzymes which solubilize the reactive intermediates allowing for excretion from the body. Here we examine a novel blend of sulforaphane and maitake mushroom extract and their effect on the detoxifying enzymes. Previously, our laboratory has shown that the combination of sulforaphane and maitake mushroom extract can induce such detoxifying enzymes as UDP glucuronosyltransferase 1 family, polypeptide A1 (UGT1A1). In this study, we focus on the effect of the combination of sulforaphane and maitake mushroom extract on Phase 2 enzymes in cultured liver cells over a series of time points using qRT‐PCR, Western blot analysis, and immunofluorescence. Elevated levels of NQO1 and GSTT1 were observed over a course of 72 hours. This demonstrates that the combination of sulforaphane and maitake mushroom extract can induce the production of the phase 2 enzymes needed to promote clearance of potentially reactive intermediates. Funding: Nutramax Laboratories, Consumer Care, Inc.