| FEMA | N/A |
| CAS | 771-51-7 |
| EINECS | 212-232-1 |
| JECFA Food Flavoring | N/A |
| CoE Number | N/A |
| Organoleptic Notes |
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| Odor | N/A |
| Flavor | N/A |
| Material Notes | Myrosinase-induced hydrolysis product of indole glucosinolates, found in cabbage and other crucifers 3-Indoleacetonitrile is a phytoalexin. Phytoalexins are antibiotics produced by plants that are under attack. Phytoalexins tend to fall into several classes including terpenoids, glycosteroids and alkaloids; a plant that has anti-insect phytoalexins may not have the ability to repel a fungal attack. 3-Indoleacetonitrile is common in cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. Dietary indoles in cruciferous vegetables induce cytochrome P450 enzymes and have prevented tumors in various animal models. Consumption of Brassica vegetables is associated with a reduced risk of cancer of the alimentary tract in animal models and human populations. (PMID: 15612779, 15884814, 2342128, 3014947, 3880668, 6334634, 6419397, 6426808, 6584878, 6725517, 6838646, 7123561); however, researchers often find it convenient to extend the definition to include all phytochemicals that are part of the plant's defensive arsenal. Phytoalexins produced in plants act as toxins to the attacking organism. They may puncture the cell wall, delay maturation, disrupt metabolism or prevent reproduction of the pathogen in question. However, phytoalexins are often targeted to specific predators |