Effects of soy isoflavonoids (genistein and daidzein) on endometrial receptivity

OBJECTIVE(S): This study aimed to examine the effects of genistein and daidzein on endometrial receptivity by histopathological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical techniques. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, 72 female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 8 groups. The endometrial receptivity model was applied to identified groups. Experimental animals were given periorally 10 mg/kg and high 40 mg/kg doses of genistein and daidzein for 5 days by gavage. At the end of the experiment, uterine tissues were evaluated histopathologically, immunohistochemically, and biochemically. RESULTS: When histopathological findings were examined, significant decreases in pinopod formation were observed in high dose genistein and daidzein groups. When compared with the endometrial receptivity group, immunohistochemical staining findings showed a significant decrease in the expression of integrin β3, integrin αvβ3, LIF, and HOXA10 and an increase in MUC 1 expression in the high dose of genistein and daidzein groups. In biochemical evaluations, it was determined that genistein and daidzein increased estrogen levels and decreased progesterone levels in a dose-dependent manner. CONCLUSION: Genistein and daidzein have a negative effect on endometrial receptivity. Therefore, individuals with a risk of infertility should pay attention to the consumption of genistein and daidzein.