In Vitro Hormonal Effects of Soybean Isoflavones

Isoflavones exhibit a multitude of biological effects that influence cell growth and regulation, and, thus, may have potential value in the prevention and treatment of cancer. Isoflavones are weak estrogens and can function both as estrogen agonists and antagonists depending on the hormonal milieu and the target tissue and species under investigation. Genistein, one of the two primary isoflavones in soybeans, has attracted much attention from the research community, not only because of its potential antiestrogenic effects, but because it inhibits several key enzymes thought to be involved in carcinogenesis. Although still speculative, greater dietary incorporation of soybean products, because of the high concentration of isoflavones, may be a safe and effective means of reducing cancer risk.