Genistein can inhibit proliferation of HN4 squamous cell carcinoma cell line of the head and neck. A new drug, EGF-Genistein, genistein conjugated to human epidermal growth factor, induced cures of human breast cancer in mice and was found to be safe in small animals as well as monkeys. The effect may be similar in prostate cancer, melanoma, ovarian cancer, bladder cancer, liver cancer, and lung cancer. The similar effects of genistein on a number of breast carcinoma cell lines with different ER and p53 status suggest that the actions of genistein reported here are mediated through ER and p53 independent mechanisms. Genistein, by inhibiting the process, may make precancerous or cancer cells more vulnerable to destruction.
More study is needed to determine if genistein alone can help prevent cancer in the body.
Soy may contain compounds that complement genistein in regulating gene expression and contribute to its putative chemopreventive effect. This results in rapid cell death of chemotherapy resistant breast cancer cells. Genistein is a naturally occurring steroid-like substance present in soybeans. Flavonoids, dietary-derived inhibitors of cell proliferation and in vitro angiogenesis. The wider distribution and the more abundant presence of flavonoids in the plant kingdom, together with the present results, suggest that flavonoids may contribute to the preventive effect of a plant-based diet on chronic diseases, including solid tumors.