Oxidative stress pathways via enterolignan metabolites

Oxidative stress pathways via enterolignan metabolites refer to the complex biochemical interactions involving gut microbiota-derived compounds, specifically enterolactone and enterodiol, which are formed from dietary plant lignans (Adlercreutz, 2007). These metabolites act as potent antioxidants and weak phytoestrogens, playing a crucial role in maintaining cellular redox balance by activating the Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway (Peterson et al., 2010). Upon activation, Nrf2 translocates to the nucleus and binds to the Antioxidant Response Element (ARE), triggering the expression of protective enzymes like superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase (Wang, 2002). Additionally, enterolignans modulate inflammatory responses by inhibiting the NF-kappaB signaling cascade, thereby reducing oxidative damage associated with chronic inflammation (During et al., 2012). Their biological relevance is primarily linked to the prevention of hormone-dependent cancers and cardiovascular diseases, where they mitigate the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species (Pellegrini et al., 2010). Because this entry describes a multi-step biological process and a class of metabolites rather than a specific protein or receptor, it is classified as a pathway rather than a discrete therapeutic target.

Other names

Enterolignan-mediated antioxidant signalingLignan metabolite pathwaysEnterolactone and enterodiol redox modulation

Activation of the Nrf2/ARE antioxidant signaling pathway and competitive modulation of estrogen receptors alpha and beta.