Overview of the chemistry of soy isoflavones, potential threats and potential therapeutic benefits.

Isoflavones are phytochemicals that have properties similar to estrogens. They are bioflavonoids. Isoflavones, flavones and coumestans are the most abundant phytoestrogens in the human diet, and soy is by far the richest source of these compounds. The principle soy isoflavones are genistein, daidzein, and their metabolites. Soy isoflavones are naturally occurring non-steroidal compound which are structurally similar to endogenous gonadal steroid 17βestradiol. They trigger estrogen dependent physiological responses. As result of these actions, there is currently much interest within the scientific community regarding the chemistry, threats and health benefits of dietary soy isoflavones.