Unveiling the neuroprotective properties of isoflavones: current evidence, molecular mechanisms and future perspectives

Abstract

Neurodegenerative diseases encompass a wide range of debilitating and incurable brain disorders characterized by the progressive deterioration of the nervous system’s structure and function. Isoflavones, which are naturally occurring polyphenolic phytochemicals, have been found to regulate various cellular signaling pathways associated with the nervous system. The main objective of this comprehensive review is to explore the neuroprotective effects of isoflavones, elucidate the underlying mechanisms, and assess their potential for treating neurodegenerative disorders. Relevant data regarding isoflavones and their impact on neurodegenerative diseases were gathered from multiple library databases and electronic sources, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Science Direct. Numerous isoflavones, including genistein, daidzein, biochanin A, and formononetin, have exhibited potent neuroprotective properties against various neurodegenerative diseases. These compounds have been found to modulate neurotransmitters, which in turn contributes to their ability to protect against neurodegeneration. Both in vitro and in vivo experimental studies have provided evidence of their neuroprotection mechanisms, which involve interactions with estrogenic receptors, antioxidant effects, anti-inflammatory properties, anti-apoptotic activity, and modulation of neural plasticity. This review aims to provide current insights into the neuroprotective characteristics of isoflavones and shed light on their potential therapeutic applications in future clinical scenarios.

Keywords:

• Isoflavones
• neurodegenerative diseases
• estrogenic receptors
• in vitro and in vivo studies
• neuroprotection

Authors contributions

Concept: Guowei Gong, Kumar Ganesan, Yaqun Liu, Yongping Huang, Yuting Luo, Xuexu Wang, Zhenxia Zhang, Yuzhong Zheng. Critical review: All authors.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This research was funded by National Nature Science Foundation of China [82160825], Scientific and Technical Research Project of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Minority Medicine of Guizhou Province [QZYY-2024-004], Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Substances in Medicinal Edible Resources and Healthcare Products [No. 2021B1212040015 and No. GPKLFSHP202101], Scientific Projects of Key Disciplines in Guangdong Province [2021ZDJS042; 2022ZDJS070], Professor Project of Hanshan Normal University [QD2023312].