Broccoli Extract May Treat Genetic Skin Disorder

Epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS), a genetic skin blistering disorder, is a rare but devastating inherited condition in which fluid-filled lesions called bullae appear at sites of frictional trauma to the skin. Unfortunately, treatment options for EBS are limited and palliative in nature. Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables have the high-level compound sulforaphane which has been hailed for its chemopreventive powers against cancer. Now it has demonstrated new skills in treating EBS. Much work remains to be done before sulforaphane can be tested clinically with EBS patients, but researchers note that extracts from broccoli sprouts rich in sulforaphane have already been shown to be safe for use in human skin.