Derivatives of Phytoestrogen Genistein: An Approach to Cancer Treatment

Phytoestrogens, phenolic non-steroidal compounds, extracted from plants are structurally or functionally similar of mammalian estrogens. They possess hormonal activity and can bind to estrogen receptors. Phytoestrogens consist of isoflavones, lignans and coumestans, in which Isoflavones are abundantly found in legumes mainly in soybeans. Out of all soy isoflavones, genistein have most potent estrogenic activity. Menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, urogenital atrophy, incontinence, insomnia, heart problems and osteoporosis are dominates in the end of menstrual cycle as estrogen level begin to decline. Genistein can act like weak estrogens by binding to the estrogen receptor on cell membranes and as estrogen antagonists by preventing estrogens from binding to the receptors, depending on their concentration and other factors. In prevention of hormone dependent cancer, cardiovascular diseases by improving plasma lipid concentrations, osteoporosis and cognitive decline, Genistein shows positive effects.

Examining the relationship between traditional Chinese medicine and conventional medicine in breast cancer patients medicated with estrogen antagonists

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women, with a 10.4% incidence rate worldwide. It is the fifth most common cause of death. Treatment includes surgery, radiation and drugs. Conventional treatment of estrogen receptor positive types of tumors involves the use of hormone therapy. The side-effects of these drugs, <em>i.e.</em> menopausal type symptoms, are an extra burden to women with breast cancer. Further use of drugs to treat such side-effects often provokes adverse symptoms, prompting a search for alternative types of treatment. This paper aims to review research into the use of traditional Chinese medical acupuncture to combat side-effects in breast cancer patients medicated with estrogen antagonists, and examine its complementary role.