MSI_000032842

Enterolactone (CAS: 78473-71-9) is a mammalian lignan that has a similar biphenolic structure to lignans from plants. Lignans are compounds with estrogenic properties and are probably the most important source of phytoestrogens in western diets. Mammalian lignans are formed from precursors that are contained mainly in vegetables, whole grain products, and berries, via the action of intestinal microflora. Enterolactone is produced in the colon by the action of bacteria on secoisolariciresinol, matairesinol, and its glycosides. Secoisolariciresinol is converted to enterodiol which is subsequently converted to enterolactone as it passes through the colon. Matairesinol is converted directly to enterolactone. Enterolactone has been shown to possess weakly estrogenic and antiestrogenic activities, and it has been suggested that the high production of this antiestrogenic mammalian lignans in the gut may serve to protect against breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men; however epidemiological evidence to date is conflicting (PMID: 16168401, 12270221, 11216511, 12107024). Enterolactone is a biomarker for the consumption of soybeans and other soy products. D006730 - Hormones, Hormone Substitutes, and Hormone Antagonists > D006728 - Hormones > D004967 - Estrogens