What is Genistein?

Genistein chemical structure is isoflavonoid. It has been gathering attention due to its wide variety of biological activities. Together with numerous other phytoestrogens, genistein can be found in soy. As phytoestrogens have a similar structure to natural estrogens, they can induce similar effects and be used in cases of:

• for prophylaxis and treatment of cancer
• antioxidative effect
• immunity-boosting effect
• cardioprotective effect
• and many more

Genistein structure has a diphenolic nature that is similar to human estrogen. A similar distance between the hydroxyl groups at the opposite ends of the molecule allows it to bind to estrogen receptors. 

Antioxidative properties of Genistein

Similar to other isoflavonoids genistein possesses antioxidative properties. The hydroxyl groups bonded to aromatic systems can neutralize many harmful, fast-reacting radical molecules. 

Scientists have studied its direct antioxidative effects on various biomolecules. Genistein supplements were able to prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins that resulting in the prevention of atherosclerosis. Also, other reports suggest that genistein exhibits a protective effect for oxidative DNA damage in postmenopausal women.

Genistein can also boost our body’s natural ability to fight off these reactive molecules. It was effective to reduce the activity of enzymes directly responsible for the increase of oxidative stress. This can reduce inflammations and improve immune response.

Genistein can also increase the expression of antioxidative enzymes like glutathione peroxidase.

Genistein for the treatment of cancer

Multiple studies have shown genistein as a possible anti-cancer treatment drug. For example, genistein has shown activity against colon cancer. Genistein was able to inhibit colon cancer cell proliferation by selectively targeting specific enzymes – PI3K/Akt pathway. It can activate FOXO3 activity, an enzyme, that negatively affects new cell formation. Other cellular pathways are also plausible.

Other studies have also shown that genistein can induce several other cellular pathways, that can help in the treatment of cancer. Multiple groups have pointed out the ability to induce apoptosis in the cervical, colon, hepatocellular carcinoma, and others cancers.

Genistein can also prevent the formation of new blood vessels – angiogenesis. This can stop the spread of cancer just by simply cutting the supply of nutrients in the bladder, thyroid, and other types of cancer.

Scientists have also pointed its ability to stop the spread of metastasis and to work as an addition to other chemotherapies by preventing the negative effects of more potent drugs.

Cardioprotective effect

Some experimental studies have shown that genistein phytoestrogenic properties can lessen the damage of ischemia caused by myocardial injury. Although the precise mechanism is currently unknown, experimental data shows that the great effect that it can provide. 

Expression of nitric oxide by genistein

Scientists have shown the effect genistein can have on our blood system. By activating eNOS transcription, genistein is promoting the release of nitric oxide. As nitric oxide is an effective vasodilator, it can relieve symptoms of inflammation, reduce the possible formation of thrombi, and more. 

Positive effects have especially been linked to post-menopausal women who may possibly lack normal natural amounts of estrogens.

Other effects of genistein

As we mentioned, genistein has gathered quite the attention. Genistein foods have showed antiallergic effects, having therapeutic effects for cystic fibrosis genistein is still a hot subject for medicinal chemists. If you wish to continue the exploration, you can buy genistein and many more products directly in our store.