Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) is a phytonutrient found in cruciferous vegetables.

Recent research shows PEITC can help inhibit carcinogenesis (the development of cancer) and tumorigenesis (the development of tumors) and therefore may be useful in reducing cancer risk.

Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) has been shown to induce apoptosis (or cell suicide) in certain cancer cell lines and is currently being studied for its use in the treatment and prevention of cancer.

References

Fahey JW, Zalcmann AT, Talalay P. The chemical diversity and distribution of glucosinolates and isothiocyanates among plants. Phytochemistry. 2001;56(1):5-51. Zhang Y. Cancer-preventive isothiocyanates: measurement of human exposure and mechanism of action. Mutat Res. 2004;555(1-2):173-190.