Chapter - Genistein – A Natural Antioxidant and its Use in Treatment of Various Diseases

Abstract

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.

Cite as