Allicin and related compounds: Biosynthesis, synthesis and pharmacological activity

In this review, the biosynthesis of allicin (allyl thiosulfinate) by enzymatic transformation of alliin and various methods of its synthesis with detailed investigation of mechanisms and kinetics are summarized. A convenient method is also described for determination of allicin stability and the utility of the inclusion complexes of this pharmacologically active agent with β-cyclodextrins in increasing its stability. Allicin is the initial precursor for the production of ajoene ((E)- and (Z)-4,5,9-trithiadodeca- 1,6,11-triene 9-oxides) and vinyldithiin (2-vinyl-4H-1,3-dithiin, and 3-vinyl-4H-1,2- dithiin), which are more stable and show various pharmacological effects. The mechanisms of allicin transformations to these compounds are given in detail. Finally, the data on the pharmacological effects of allicin and its transformation products, ajoene and vinyldithiin, are presented.