Effect of isoflavone extracts from Glycine max on human endothelial cell damage and on nitric oxide production
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2026

En Face Detection of Nitric Oxide and Superoxide in Endothelial Layer of Intact Arteries
Published on: February 25, 2016
Michele Paulo1, Mirian Mendonça Salvador, Mário dos Anjos Neto Filho
1Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
Objective:
In this study, we determined the protective effect of isoflavones from Glycine max on human umbilical vein endothelial cell (ECV304) damage induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and on nitric oxide (NO) production.
Methods:
We studied the regulation of NO synthesis in cultured human endothelial cells by phytoestrogens contained in soy extracts in the presence or absence of ICI 182,780 or N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl esther and determined the protective effect of these isoflavones on ECV304 damage induced by H2O2.
Results:
We show that soy extracts activate NO synthesis in endothelial cells and protect against cell damage.
Conclusions:
In conclusion, soy isoflavones markedly protect ECV304 cells against H2O2 damage and promote NO synthesizing. Therefore, these isoflavones can potentially act as an NO promoter and as an antioxidant.
Related Concept Videos
Nitric Oxide Signaling Pathway
Regulation of Angiogenesis and Blood Supply

