Formononetin

Preliminary

Mechanism of Action

Phytoestrogenic via selective ERβ agonism (ERβ:ERα preference ratio ~5:1); anti-tumor via cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction; cardioprotective via NO-mediated vasodilation and LDL oxidation inhibition; anti-inflammatory via NF-κB suppression

Selective ERβ agonist with SERM-like profile; stimulates osteoblast differentiation and inhibits osteoclast activity; phytoestrogenic activity modulates menopausal symptoms without strong ERα stimulation.

Estrogen receptor alpha/beta binding; phytoestrogenic

Research Notes

Astragalus (Huang Qi)TCM

Selective ERβ binding relevant to postmenopausal bone health. Anti-cancer activity against MCF-7, HeLa, and DU145 cell lines. Anti-osteoporotic effects in ovariectomized rat models. Limited human clinical data specific to formononetin.

HoneybushAfrican

One small double-blind RCT (n=36) showed reduction in menopausal symptom scores after 12 weeks of standardised extract vs placebo. In vitro bone-protective effects consistently demonstrated. ERβ selectivity may offer safety advantage over non-selective phytoestrogens.

Red CloverWestern

Formononetin undergoes hepatic glucuronidation and enteric metabolism to equol in responsive individuals. Systematic reviews indicate modest benefit for vasomotor symptoms with inconsistent individual responses.

Found In 3 Herbs

3D Molecular Structure

Isoflavone (4'-methoxyisoflavone)

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Formononetin

Isoflavone (4'-methoxyisoflavone)Bioactive phytochemical with therapeutic properties

Representative pattern: C₁₅H₁₀O₃

Atoms

Carbon

Oxygen

Live Research

Open on PubMed

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