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Soy proteins and cardiovascular disease
1Center E. Grossi Paoletti and Institute of Pharmacological Sciences, University of Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, Milano 20133, Italy. cesare.sirtori@unimi.it
Current Atherosclerosis Reports
|December 21, 2000
Summary
Soybean consumption effectively lowers high cholesterol, particularly in individuals with elevated levels. Soy protein activates the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor pathway in the liver, offering a novel cholesterol-reduction mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Cardiovascular Health
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Soybean is recognized as a potent dietary intervention for hypercholesterolemia.
- The US FDA has approved a health claim for soy's role in reducing coronary heart disease risk.
- The hypocholesterolemic effect of soy is dose-dependent on baseline cholesterol levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanism by which soy protein reduces plasma cholesterol.
- To explore the role of soy components (fiber, isoflavones, protein) in cholesterol reduction.
- To elucidate the specific pathway activated by soy protein in humans.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on soy's effect on cholesterol.
- Analysis of studies involving ethanol-extracted soy and isoflavone-rich extracts.
- Examination of data on soy protein's interaction with the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor pathway.
Main Results:
- Soy fiber lacks evidence for a hypocholesterolemic effect.
- Ethanol-extracted soy (lacking isoflavones) showed a diminished effect, while isoflavone-rich extracts were inactive.
- Soy protein activates the LDL receptor pathway in humans.
Conclusions:
- Soy protein, specifically its 7S subunits, directly activates hepatic LDL receptors.
- This activation provides a novel mechanism for plasma cholesterol reduction.
- Soy protein offers a distinct approach to managing hypercholesterolemia compared to existing diets and drugs.