Abstract
Genistein, an isoflavonoid, is found in a plethora of plant-based foods, and has been approved for use in various therapies. A couple of studies in adult men observed a negative correlation between genistein exposure and reproductive parameters. To assess the effects of genistein exposure on reproduction and fertility in males and females, we performed quantitative meta-analyses by pooling data from published studies on animals that assessed various reproductive parameters. Pooled analysis showed significant decreases in sperm count in males exposed to genistein during adulthood (Hedges's g=-2.51, p = 0.013) and in utero (Hedges's g=-0.861, p = 0.016) compared with controls. In males exposed to genistein in utero, serum testosterone levels decreased (Hedges's g=-6.301, p = 0.000) and luteinizing hormone (LH) (Hedges's g=7.127, p = 0.000) and FSH (Hedges's g=6.19, p = 0.000) levels increased in comparison with controls. In females, the number of corpora lutea (Hedges's g=-2.103, p = 0.019) and the litter size (Hedges's g=-1.773, p-value=0.000) decreased; however, female reproductive hormones remained unaffected. These meta-analyses show that genistein has detrimental effects on male reproductive system and on the progression and sustenance of pregnancy, with more pronounced adverse impact in males, particularly when exposed in utero.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
