phytoestrogens and Cholestasis--Intrahepatic

Miroestrol and deoxymiroestrol are highly active phytoestrogens isolated from the tuberous root of Pueraria candollei var. mirifica (Leguminosae). Modulatory effects of miroestrol and deoxymiroestrol on the mRNAs of BSEP and MRP2 genes involved in bile salt transportation, in C57BL/6 mice were investigated. In contrast to estradiol, miroestrol and deoxymiroestrol suppressed the expression of BSEP and MRP2 mRNA in both male and female mice. The results suggest for the first time that the use of miroestrol and deoxymiroestrol-containing products as alternative medicines or health supplements should be concerned according to their effects on key genes that regulate the bile salt export pump, which could result in the risk of hepatotoxicity and intrahepatic cholestasis.

Topics: Animals; ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B, Member 11; ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters; Cholestasis, Intrahepatic; Coumarins; Female; Liver; Liver Diseases; Male; Membrane Transport Proteins; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Phytoestrogens; Plant Extracts; Plant Roots; Plant Tubers; Pueraria; RNA, Messenger; Steroids