Allan Brown Download Images (Hi-Res) - Images can be viewed below before downloading.

Applied Molecular Geneticist
Department of Horticultural Science
704-250-5417
allan_brown@ncsu.edu

Dr. Allan Brown wants to improve broccoli and, in the long-term, human health. He is identifying the compounds in broccoli that are associated with certain health benefits such as cancer preven­tion.

Dr. Brown is developing broccoli lines that have higher levels of anti-carcinogenic compounds such as sulforaphane and Indole-3-carbinol than are found in currently available broccoli. These compounds are found almost exclusively in cole crops and have demonstrated ability to enhance the body’s defense systems. The broccoli lines that Dr. Brown is working on also contain higher levels of lutein, beta-carotene, tocopherols, calcium and other beneficial compounds to protect against cancer and other chronic diseases. Dr. Brown’s long-term goal is to produce a “super broccoli” that contains even higher levels of beneficial compounds.

“Years from now, when you buy tastier, healthier blueberries with a longer shelf life, it will be due in part to the work we’re doing here in Kannapolis,” Brown says.