Effects of Adlay Extract on Steroidogenesis and Uterine Contraction

Abstract

Adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf.) has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine for dysfunction of the endocrine system. It is widely planted in Taiwan, China, and Japan, and is considered as a healthy food supplement. Recent studies have shown some physiological effects of adlay extracts. For example, adlay extract suppressed the gene expression of cyclooxygenase of human lung cancer cells, inhibition of oxidation activity, and proliferation of cancer cells. Although adlay has many biological functions, its action mechanisms on the endocrine system have not yet been extensively studied. The purpose of this manuscript is to summarize our previous studies regarding the effects of adlay extract on steroidogenesis and uterine contraction over the past ten years.