Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 17, 2025

Screening for Phytoestrogens using a Cell-based Estrogen Receptor β Reporter Assay
Published on: June 7, 2020
Soy isoflavone-specific biotransformation product S-equol in the colon: physiological functions, transformation
Xiaoying Wang1, Baiyan Chen1, Xiang Fang1
1College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
Abstract:
Epidemiological data suggest that regular intake of soy isoflavones may reduce the incidence of estrogen-dependent and aging-associated disorders. Equol is a metabolite of soy isoflavone (SI) produced by specific gut microbiota and has many beneficial effects on human health due to its higher biological activity compared to SI. However, only 1/3 to 1/2 of humans are able to produce equol in the body, which means that not many people can fully benefit from SI. This review summarizes the recent advances in equol research, focusing on the chemical properties, physiological functions, conversion mechanisms in vitro and vivo, and metabolic regulatory pathways affecting S-equol production. Advanced experimental designs and possible techniques in future research plan are also fully discussed. Furthermore, this review provides a fundamental basis for researchers in the field to understand individual differences in S-equol production, the efficiency of metabolic conversion of S-equol, and fermentation production of S-equol in vitro.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Drug Biotransformation: Overview
Factors Affecting Drug Biotransformation: Biological
Species differences: Variations in enzyme systems across species can cause disparities in drug metabolism. For instance, humans may metabolize certain drugs faster than rodents, altering therapeutic effects.
Strain differences: Genetic variations within a species can result in differing enzyme activity, impacting drug response and toxicity. For example, some mouse strains may...
Bioequivalence: Overview
Bioavailability: Overview
Drug Metabolism: Phase II Reactions
Factors Influencing Bioavailability: First-Pass Elimination

