Genistein (5,7-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)chromen-4-one or 4’,5,7-
trihydroxyisoflavone) can be found in various plants, though soy is especially rich in
this compound. It has multiple biological activities, but one of its major features is its
antioxidative function. Either genistein-rich extracts from plants or synthetic genistein
have been used in studies on the potential treatment of various conditions and diseases.
They are as different as neurodegenerative diseases (including Alzheimer's disease and
various genetic diseases), cancer, cardiovascular disorders, liver dysfunctions, and
many others. Although for the treatment of various diseases the major mechanisms of
genistein action can be based on modulation of specific biochemical pathways, its
antioxidative function may contribute significantly to its therapeutic potential. These
aspects are discussed in the light of development of genistein-based therapies for a
battery of different disorders.
Keywords: Antioxidant, Cancer, Cardiovascular diseases, Genistein,
Neurodegenerative diseases.
