Glucosinolates metabolism and redox state of rocket (Eruca sativa Mill.) during germination

Isothiocyanates (ITCs) exhibit anticancer and antioxidant activity. ITCs are formed from the catalysis of glucosinolates (GLs) by myrosinase (MYR) in Brassicaceae vegetables. This study investigated the GL content, MYR activity, ITC formation, and redox state of rocket upon germination. Banye and Dongsheng were selected from four cultivars by determining growth state and ITC metabolism. In both cultivars, GL levels were the highest on the second day of germination and significantly declined on the eighth day. The 4-day-old sprouts had the highest ITC level. MYR exhibited maximal activity in Banye and Dongsheng on the fourth and the second day of germination, respectively. Regarding the antioxidant system, the sprouts had more chlorophyll, total phenol, and anthocyanin content, and they had higher DPPH scavenging effects compared with raw seeds. Moreover, Dongsheng showed greater scavenging capacity than Banye in general. Practical applications Rocket belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which has been widely considered a good source of bioactive components to prevent tumor formation and reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease and cancer given the abundance of glucosinolate (GLs). GLs could be catalyzed by myrosinases (MYR) and converted into biologically active products including isothiocyanates (ITCs). After germination, MYR is activated and more ITCs are produced. Using rocket sprouts as a daily diet or raw material is beneficial for human health.