Characterization of Soybean Germinated Embryo Extract as an Estrogen Receptor Subtype-Selective and Tissue-Specific Modulator

J Med Food. 2019 Feb;22(2):186-195. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2018.4250. Epub 2018 Dec 26.

Abstract

Phytoestrogens possess beneficial effects in the management of menopausal symptoms with few side effects. Soybeans are major natural sources of isoflavones, with high estrogen receptor (ER)-β selectivity. The objective of this study therefore was to develop a solvent-mediated extraction method for soybean germinated embryos (SGEs) and to investigate the biological activities of the extract. Ethanolic extraction yielded the SGE extract (SGEE), which had a unique composition of biologically active aglycones and soyasaponins. SGEE showed a proliferative effect in MCF7 cells and ERβ-selective transcriptional activities in human embryonic kidney cells. In addition, oral administration of SGEE to ovariectomized rats resulted in the induction of ERβ and estrogen-responsive genes in the uterus and a decrease in tail skin temperature and uterus weight. Our data suggest that germination and ethanolic extraction are effective measures for producing isoflavone-rich food supplements, which may be useful as alternative menopausal hormone therapy.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Body Temperature
  • Estrogen Receptor beta / metabolism*
  • Female
  • Germination
  • Glycine max / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • MCF-7 Cells
  • Menopause
  • Organ Size / drug effects
  • Ovariectomy
  • Phytoestrogens / pharmacology
  • Phytotherapy
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology*
  • Rats, Sprague-Dawley
  • Saponins / pharmacology*
  • Seeds
  • Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators / pharmacology*
  • Skin / drug effects*
  • Tail
  • Uterus / drug effects*
  • Uterus / metabolism

Substances

  • Estrogen Receptor beta
  • Phytoestrogens
  • Plant Extracts
  • Saponins
  • Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators