Isoflavonoids − Dual Action on Estrogen Receptors

Isoflavonoids are phytoestrogenic compounds found mainly in plants from the Fabaceae family and also in soy-based foods. Isoflavonoids exhibit (anti)estrogenic effects, acting on estrogen receptors due to the structural similarities with estrogenic hormones (17β-estradiol). The aim of our minireview is to highlight the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of isoflavonoids, in order to sustain the beneficial effects in different pathologies (osteoporosis associated with menopause, breast cancer, prostate cancer, protective cognitive functions) but, at the same time, to aware about the possible adverse effects on long-term administration.