Soyselect^® features also a standardized content of group-B saponins, that are reported to be biologically active molecules. Soyasaponins are considered important bioactive components contributing to the beneficial health effects of soy consumption. Biological effects of especially group-B soyasaponins have been reported extensively, and include immunostimulatory, anti-viral, hypocholesterolaemic, hepatoprotective and anticarcinogenic activities (1,2).

Group-B soy saponins aglycone structure

The standardized content of saponins in Soyselect® has been proven able in an animal model to significantly enhance isoflavones bioavailability.

The bioavailability of isoflavones after oral administration of Soyselect^® has been evaluated in female rats in comparison with that of a saponin-deprived soy extract (3). The comparison between the AUCs (Area Under Curve) obtained with the administration of 30 mg of isoflavones from Soyselect^® with that obtained with 80 mg of isoflavones from the saponin-deprived extract (table 1) shows Soyselect^® isoflavones are 1.7 fold more bioavailable.

This result is strongly linked to the presence in Soyselect^® of group-B soy saponins.

(1) Rao A.V., Sung M. K., J. Nutr. 125, 717 S (1995).
(2) Kervin S.M., Curr. Med. Chem.-Anti-Cancer Agents 4, 263 (2004).
(3) Soy&Health 2002, London, UK..

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