Phytoestrogens in gynecology - antioxidative role

Abstract

Milan M. Terzic1,2, Jelena R. Dotlic1

It has been shown that higher levels of estrogens in females protect them against aging by upregulating the expression of antioxidant longevity-related genes. Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring polycyclic phenols found in certain plants that have weak estrogenic effects due to the fact that they are structurally and functionally similar to 17ß-estradiol, and thus, bind to estradiol receptors. Therefore, isoflavones and other phenolic compounds decrease the increased level of markers of oxidative stress and boost DNA resistance to oxidative damage. Consequently, menopausal women who are receiving phytoestrogens have multiple benefits. Synergetic action of estrogenic and antioxidative mechanism of action exerts positive effects on cardiovascular, immunological and central nervous system. Moreover, they can have potential role in prevention and treatment of some cancers. Therefore, it is advised that menopausal women should get phytoestrogen supplementation.