Genistein in Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer: Anticancer Mechanisms and Structural Modifications

Genistein, a naturally occurring isoflavone with broad-spectrum bioactivities, is reviewed in this manuscript, with a specific focus on its anticancer mechanisms, structural modifications, and clinical progress. The cytotoxic activity displayed by genistein, particularly on in vitro tumor cell lines of triple-negative breast cancer, is extensively discussed. Although its exact mechanism of action continues to be explored, in vitro studies suggest genistein performs its inhibitory action through specific interference with cancer cell proliferation and growth. Despite these promising findings, the weak lipophilicity, instability, and low bioavailability limited the further application of genistein in clinical treatment. To address this challenge, structural modifications are proposed to genistein to improve its bioavailability and efficacy and reduce its toxicity.