A Comprehensive Review on Therapeutic Benefits and Deficiencies of Organo Sulphur Compounds

Lakshmi Prasanna J*, Shahanaz Shaik, Nandhini M, Ajay Kumar K,

 Sravanth Kumar B

A.M.Reddy Memorial of pharmacy,Narasaraopet-522601,Andhra Pradesh, India

*Correspondence: prasanna_994@yahoo.co.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.71431/IJRPAS.2026.5702     

INTRODUCTION

Organo-sulfur compounds are organic compounds that contain sulfur atoms covalently bonded to carbon (C–S bonds) in their molecular structure, forming a diverse class of compounds found in natural and synthetic systems. They are widely present in living organisms, foods, and industrial materials, and include biologically important molecules such as amino acids (cysteine and methionine), enzymes, vitamins, and coenzymes, which play key roles in metabolism and physiological functions^[1]. These compounds are also characterized by sulfur-containing functional groups, which contribute to their broad chemical reactivity and pharmacological activities. Due to their structural diversity and functional importance, organosulfur compounds are extensively used in pharmaceutical, biochemical, and industrial applications ^[2]. List of Organo Sulfur Compunds and their sources are mentioned in the Table 1 and Fig 1-4.

Fig 1: Watercress                                          Fig 2: Garlic

Fig 3: Broccoli                                                       Fig 4: Mushroom

Table 1: List of Organo Sulfur Compunds and their soucres

ACTIVITIES OF ORGANOSULFUR COMPOUNDS                                      

1.                  Anti-viral activity:

Organosulfur compounds, particularly from Allium sativum, exhibit significant antiviral activity against a wide range of viruses. These compounds, including allicin and ajoene, act by inhibiting viral entry into host cells and blocking viral replication processes. They interfere with essential viral enzymes, thereby preventing the synthesis of viral genetic material and proteins. Additionally, they can inactivate viruses by reacting with key functional groups in viral proteins. Their broad-spectrum action has been observed against viruses like influenza, herpes simplex, and coronaviruses. The antiviral effect is mainly due to their ability to disrupt multiple stages of the viral life cycle. Overall, organosulfur compounds are considered promising natural antiviral agents due to their multi-targeted mechanism of action ^[16].

2.                  Anti hyperlipidemic activity:

Organosulfur compounds from Allium sativum exhibit significant antihyperlipidemic activity by reducing elevated lipid levels in the body. These compounds help lower total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. They act by inhibiting key enzymes involved in cholesterol biosynthesis, such as HMG-CoA reductase. Additionally, they enhance lipid metabolism and promote the excretion of cholesterol from the body. Their antioxidant properties also prevent lipid peroxidation, which is associated with cardiovascular diseases. Regular consumption has shown beneficial effects in both experimental and clinical studies. Overall, organosulfur compounds play an important role in managing hyperlipidemia and reducing cardiovascular risk. ^[17]

3.                  Anti-inflammatory activity:

Organosulfur compounds from Allium sativum exhibit anti-inflammatory activity by modulating key cellular signalling pathways involved in inflammation. These compounds suppress the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammatory responses. They inhibit important enzymatic pathways and regulate immune cell activity associated with inflammation. Additionally, they reduce oxidative stress, which plays a major role in inflammatory processes. Their effects are attributed to bioactive sulfur compounds that act on multiple molecular targets. The anti-inflammatory action is also influenced by their bioavailability and stability during processing. Overall, these compounds exert anti-inflammatory effects through multi-target mechanisms involving biochemical and signalling pathways.^[18]

4.                  Antifungal activity:

Organosulfur compounds from Allium sativum exhibit significant antifungal activity against a wide range of pathogenic fungi. These compounds act by disrupting fungal cell membrane integrity and inhibiting essential enzymes required for fungal growth. They interfere with lipid synthesis in fungal cells, leading to increased membrane permeability and cell death. Additionally, organosulfur compounds inhibit spore germination and fungal proliferation. Their activity is also associated with the inactivation of thiol-containing enzymes in fungal metabolism. The antifungal effect has been observed against species such as Candida and Aspergillus. Overall, these compounds act through multiple mechanisms to effectively control fungal infections. ^[19]

5.                  Anti-atherosclerotic activity:

Organosulfur compounds from Allium sativum exhibit anti-atherosclerotic activity by regulating lipid metabolism and reducing cholesterol accumulation in arterial walls. These compounds inhibit oxidative stress and prevent oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), a key step in plaque formation. They also suppress inflammatory responses and reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines involved in atherosclerosis progression. Additionally, organosulfur compounds improve endothelial function and protect vascular integrity. Their activity involves modulation of multiple signalling pathways associated with lipid synthesis and inflammation. These combined effects help prevent foam cell formation and slow down plaque development. Overall, organosulfur compounds exert protective effects against atherosclerosis through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering mechanisms. ^[20]

6.                  Anti-bacterial activity:

Organosulfur compounds from Allium sativum exhibit strong antibacterial activity against a wide range of pathogenic and multi-drug resistant bacteria. These compounds, including allicin and ajoene, act by reacting with sulfhydryl (-SH) groups of bacterial enzymes, leading to enzyme inactivation and disruption of metabolic processes. They also compromise the integrity of the bacterial cell membrane, resulting in leakage of cellular contents and cell death. Additionally, organosulfur compounds exhibit antibiofilm and anti-quorum sensing activities, thereby inhibiting bacterial communication and virulence. Their multi-target mechanism makes it difficult for bacteria to develop resistance. Overall, these compounds act through enzymatic inhibition, membrane disruption, and interference with bacterial signalling pathways to exert antibacterial effects. ^[21]

7.                  Anti-diabetic activity:

Organosulfur compounds from Allium sativum exhibit significant antidiabetic activity by regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. These compounds help reduce blood glucose levels and improve metabolic balance in the body. Their mechanism involves modulation of gut microbiota, particularly increasing beneficial bacteria associated with improved glucose homeostasis. They also reduce metabolic disorders linked to high-fat diet and hyperglycemia. Additionally, organosulfur compounds contribute to maintaining overall metabolic health and preventing diabetes-related complications. Overall, they exert antidiabetic effects through regulation of metabolic pathways and gut microbiota. ^[22]

8.                  Anti-parasitic activity:

Organosulfur compounds from Allium sativum exhibit significant antiparasitic activity, particularly against protozoan parasites such as Leishmania species. These compounds act by inducing apoptosis-like cell death and inhibiting the growth and proliferation of parasites. They also disrupt essential metabolic processes and interfere with parasite survival mechanisms. Additionally, organosulfur compounds enhance host immune responses by stimulating macrophage activation and promoting cytokine production. This immunomodulatory effect helps in reducing parasite load and improving disease outcome. Overall, these compounds exert antiparasitic effects through both direct toxic action and immune system modulation ^[23]

9.                  Anti-hypertensive activity:

 Organosulfur compounds in Allium sativum, such as allicin and S‑ally cysteine, exhibit anti‑hypertensive activity by promoting vasodilation and reducing vascular resistance. These compounds stimulate the production of nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), which relax smooth muscles in blood vessels and improve endothelial function, leading to lower blood pressure. They also inhibit angiotensin II and other vasoconstrictive factors, contributing to reduced arterial tension. Additionally, antioxidant properties of these sulfur constituents help reduce oxidative stress that can worsen hypertension. Experimental and clinical studies have shown garlic extracts can significantly reduce both systolic and diastolic pressure in hypertensive subjects. Overall, organosulfur compounds act through vasorelaxation, improved endothelial signalling, and antioxidant effects to help control hypertension. ^[24]

DEFICIENCY OF ORGANO SULPHUR COMPOUNDS

1. Reduced antioxidant defence:

Deficiency of organ sulphur compounds decreases glutathione synthesis, a major antioxidant in the body. This leads to increased oxidative stress and cellular damage affecting overall health ^[25]

2.Protein and enzyme dysfunction:

Sulfur amino acids like cysteine and methionine are vital for protein and enzyme synthesis. Their deficiency impairs enzyme activity and cellular functions ^[25]

3. Weak immune function:                     

Reduced sulfur compounds weaken immune responses by affecting antioxidant defence and immune cell activity, increasing susceptibility to infections ^[26]

4. Fatigue and low energy:          

Sulfur compounds are involved in cellular metabolism. Their deficiency reduces energy production, causing fatigue and weakness ^[26]

5. Impaired liver function:

Sulfur compounds support liver metabolism and detoxification. Deficiency may reduce liver efficiency and overall metabolic balance ^[26]

6. Metabolic disorders:

Lack of sulfur-containing compounds disrupts glucose and lipid metabolism, increasing the risk of metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity ^[27]

7. Impaired methylation:

Methionine plays a key role in methylation reactions. Deficiency affects DNA regulation and neurotransmitter synthesis ^[27]

8. Neurological disturbances:          

Low levels of sulfur amino acids may affect brain function, leading to cognitive impairment and mood disorders ^[27]

9. Hormonal imbalance:

Sulfur plays a role in hormone metabolism. Its deficiency can disrupt endocrine functions and hormonal balance ^[27]

10. Joint and connective tissue problems:

Sulfur is important for collagen synthesis and connective tissue structure. Deficiency may lead to joint pain and reduced flexibility ^[28]

11. Skin, hair, and nail disorders:  

Sulfur is a key component of keratin; its deficiency can cause dry skin, brittle hair, and weak nails ^[28]

12. Poor wound healing:

Sulfur is essential for tissue repair and regeneration. Its deficiency delays wound healing and recovery processes ^[28]

13. Skin disorders & impaired detoxification:

Reduced sulphur compounds decrease glutathione synthesis, impairing liver detoxification and leading to toxin accumulation, which may cause skin problems and digestive disturbances.^[29]

14. Cognitive decline & memory problems:

Oxidative stress due to low sulphur compounds affects neuronal cells, leading to impaired memory and brain function.^[30]

15. Increased oxidative stress & cellular damage:

Low glutathione levels reduce antioxidant defense, causing lipid peroxidation and cell damage.³¹

16. Weak immunity & chronic inflammation:

Glutathione deficiency impairs immune cell function, increasing infections and inflammatory conditions.^[32]

17. Fatigue & low energy levels:

Glutathione depletion affects mitochondrial function, reducing ATP production and causing fatigue.^[33]

The deficiency of organo sulfur compounds mentioned in the Fig 5 & 6.

Fig 5: Inflammation

Fig 6: Fungal infection

CONCLUSION

Organosulfur compounds represent an important group of bioactive molecules with wide distribution in natural sources and significant relevance to human health. Their diverse pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and cardioprotective effects, highlight their potential in disease prevention and management. These compounds act through multiple mechanisms such as modulation of metabolic pathways, inhibition of harmful enzymes, and enhancement of immune responses. At the same time, deficiency of organosulfur compounds can negatively impact physiological functions, leading to increased oxidative stress, metabolic imbalance, weakened immunity, and other health disorders. Therefore, maintaining adequate intake of sulfur-rich foods is essential for overall health. Further research and clinical studies are necessary to better understand their mechanisms and to explore their full therapeutic potential in modern medicine.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

The authors declare that they have no known financial, professional, or personal conflicts of interest that could have influenced the work reported in this manuscript.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT                              

We are thankful to our institution for providing the necessary facilities and resources to complete this work successfully. We also acknowledge the authors and researchers whose published work and scientific contributions served as valuable references for this review.

REFERENCES

1.        Nicastro HL et al. Organosulfur compounds from onions and garlic and their potential effects on human health. Eur J Nutr. 2015; 54(Suppl 1):S1-S14.

2.        Goncharov NV et al. Organosulfur compounds as nutraceuticals. In: Gupta RC, Lall R, Srivastava A, editors. Nutraceuticals: Efficacy, Safety and Toxicity. 2nd ed. Cambridge (MA): Academic Press; 2021. p. 911-924.

3.        Salehi B et al. Allicin and health: A comprehensive review. Trends Food Sci Technol. 2019; 86:502-516.

4.        Hirata Y et al. Antiferroptotic properties of allicin and related organosulfur compounds—diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide-from garlic. Food Chem Toxicol. 2025; 195:115124.

5.        Song X et al. Biological functions of diallyl disulfide, a garlic-derived natural organic sulfur compound. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2021; 2021:5103626.

6.        Dinkova-Kostova AT, Kensler TW. KEAP1 and done targeting the NRF2 pathway with sulforaphane. Trends Food Sci Technol. 2017; 69(Pt B):257-269.

7.        Kosuge Y. Neuroprotective mechanisms of S-allyl-L-cysteine in neurological disease. Exp Ther Med. 2019; 19(2):1565-1569. doi:10.3892/etm.2019.8391

8.        Kaschula CH et al. Garlic-derived anticancer agents: Structure and biological activity of ajoene. Biofactors. 2010 Jan-Feb;36(1):78-85. doi:10.1002/biof.76.

9.        Shang A et al. Bioactive compounds and biological functions of garlic (Allium sativum L.). Foods. 2019; 8(7):246. doi: 10.3390/foods8070246.

10.    Colin-Gonzalez AL et al. The antioxidant mechanisms underlying the aged garlic extract- and S-allylcysteine-induced protection. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2012; 2012:907162. doi:10.1155/2012/907162.

11.    Gupta P et al. Phenethyl isothiocyanate: A comprehensive review of anti-cancer mechanisms. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer. 2014; 1846(2):405-424.

12.    Hoch CC et al. Isothiocyanates in medicine: A comprehensive review on phenylethyl-, allyl-, and benzyl-isothiocyanates. Pharmacol Res. 2024; 201:107107.

13.    Melchini A, Traka MH. Biological profile of erucin: A new promising anticancer agent from cruciferous vegetables. Toxins (Basel). 2010;2(4):593-612.

14.    Martins N et al. Organosulfur compounds: A review of their anti-aging activity and their delivery methods. Molecules. 2020; 25(18):4111.

15.    Morita K, Kobayashi S. Isolation, structure, and synthesis of lenthionine and its analogs. Chem Pharm Bull. 1967; 15(7):988-993.

16.    Rouf R et al. Antiviral potential of garlic (Allium sativum) and its organosulfur compounds: A systematic update of pre-clinical and clinical data. Trends Food Sci Technol. 2020; 104:219-234.

17.    Banerjee SK, Maulik SK. Effect of garlic on cardiovascular disorders: A review. Nutr J. 2002;1:4.

18.    Sharifi-Rad J et al. Organosulfur compounds from garlic: Recent advances in their biological activities and mechanisms of action. Food Chem. 2019;306:125492.

19.    Ross IA, Kasum CM. Health benefits of organosulfur compounds from Allium and Brassica. J Nutr. 1999;129(3):717S-721S.

20.    Li M et al. Roles and mechanisms of garlic and its extracts on atherosclerosis: A review. Front Pharmacol. 2022; 13:954938.

21.    Li Y et al. Antifungal activity of allicin alone and in combination with antifungal drugs against Candida species. Front Microbiol. 2021; 12:613077.

22.    Lanzotti R et al. Organosulfur compounds in garlic and onion: From dietary sources to health-promoting effects. J Agric Food Chem. 2022;70(20):6136-6156.

23.    Kianian M et al. Antileishmanial and immunomodulatory activity of Allium sativum (garlic): A review. J Herbmed Pharmacol. 2018;7(3):141-149.

24.    Velayutham B, Kumar S. Biological activities and pharmacological applications of organosulfur compounds from garlic and other sources: A review. Molecules. 2021;26(24):7524.

25.    Townsend DM et al. Sulfur containing amino acids and human disease. Biomed Pharmacother. 2004;58(1):47-55.

26.    Farzadfard M, Banerjee R. Sulfur-element containing metabolic pathways in human health and crosstalk with the microbiome. Antioxid Redox Signal. 2023;39(1-3):1-30.

27.    Sehrawat D, Kumar R. Role of organosulfur compounds in human health. J Nutr Metab. 2019;2019: 3680537.