1. Academic Validation
  2. Therapeutic Perspectives of 8-Prenylnaringenin, a Potent Phytoestrogen from Hops

Therapeutic Perspectives of 8-Prenylnaringenin, a Potent Phytoestrogen from Hops

  • Molecules. 2018 Mar 15;23(3):660. doi: 10.3390/molecules23030660.
Kateřina Štulíková 1 Marcel Karabín 2 Jakub Nešpor 3 Pavel Dostálek 4
Affiliations

Affiliations

  • 1 Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic. stulikoa@vscht.cz.
  • 2 Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic. marcel.karabin@vscht.cz.
  • 3 Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic. nesporj@vscht.cz.
  • 4 Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic. pavel.dostalek@vscht.cz.
Abstract

Hop (Humulus lupulus L.), as a key ingredient for beer brewing, is also a source of many biologically active molecules. A notable compound, 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), structurally belonging to the group of prenylated Flavonoids, was shown to be a potent phytoestrogen, and thus, became the topic of active research. Here, we overview the pharmacological properties of 8-PN and its therapeutic opportunities. Due to its estrogenic effects, administration of 8-PN represents a novel therapeutic approach to the treatment of menopausal and post-menopausal symptoms that occur as a consequence of a progressive decline in hormone levels in women. Application of 8-PN in the treatment of menopause has been clinically examined with promising results. Other activities that have already been assessed include the potential to prevent bone-resorption or inhibition of tumor growth. On the other hand, the use of phytoestrogens is frequently questioned regarding possible adverse effects associated with long-term consumption. In conclusion, we emphasize the implications of using 8-PN in future treatments of menopausal and post-menopausal symptoms, including the need for precise evidence and further investigations to define the safety risks related to its therapeutic use.

Keywords

8-prenylnaringenin; hops; menopause; phytoestrogens.

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