Effects of Genistein Exposure During Gestation and Lactation on Male Offspring

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In a study where pregnant rats were administered genistein (5 mg/kg/day) throughout gestation and lactation, significant reproductive abnormalities were observed in male offspring:

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• Reduced testosterone levels in male offspring.

• Delayed testicular development, indicating disruption in normal reproductive growth.

• Abnormal reproductive function, suggesting long-term endocrine and fertility effects.

 

These findings reinforce concerns about genistein’s estrogenic activity, which may interfere with androgen (male hormone) regulation and negatively impact male reproductive health when exposure occurs during critical developmental stages.

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Citation: Wisniewski AB, Klein SL, Lakshmanan Y, Gearhart JP. Exposure to genistein during gestation and lactation demasculinizes the reproductive system in rats. J.Urol. (2003) 169:1582-1586.