Protective effect of genistein on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

NAFLD is a vital health problem worldwide; however, no effective treatment is currently available for NAFLD. Intensive studies have indicated the efficacy of genistein (GE), a bioactive isoflavone extracted from soy, in treating NAFLD. In addition to its oestrogen-like effects, GE is known to have multiple molecular effects, for instance, lipid and glucose metabolism-promoting effects and activities against lipid peroxidation, inflammation, fibrosis, and NAFLD-related tumours. Here, this review summarizes the potential role of GE in the treatment and prevention of NAFLD and some of the currently known targets and signalling pathways of GE in NAFLD.