IC50: 57 and 68 nM for ERα and ERβ, respectively

8-Prenylnaringenin is an estrogen receptor inhibitor.

The two estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ belong to the nuclear receptor superfamily and are ligand-regulated transcription factors accounting for mediating the physiological effects of the steroid hormone 17α-estradiol. ER is an established target for the development of synthetic ligands for therapeutic applications.

In vitro: Previous study identified 8-prenylnaringenin as a potent phytoestrogen in hops, which had an activity greater than other known plant estrogens. The estrogenic activity of 8-prenylnaringenin was reflected in its relative binding affinity to estrogen receptors from rat uteri. In addition, the presence of 8-prenylnaringenin in hops might explane the accounts of menstrual disturbances in female hop workers [1].

In vivo: Previous animal data demonstrated that 8-prenylnaringenin treatment could result in AMPK signaling pathway activation, therefore suppressing lipogenesis. The consumption of 8-prenylnaringenin was able to prevent body weight gain and improve plasma lipid profile, with significant improvement of insulin resistance and glucose tolerance. Moreove, it was found that 8-prenylnaringenin-enriched diet could ameliorate diabetic-associated metabolic disturbances via regulating glucose and lipid pathways [2].

Clinical trial: So far, no clinical study has been conducted.

References:
[1] Milligan SR, Kalita JC, Heyerick A, Rong H, De Cooman L, De Keukeleire D. Identification of a potent phytoestrogen in hops (Humulus lupulus L.) and beer. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1999 Jun;84(6):2249-52.
[2] Costa R et al.  Xanthohumol and 8-prenylnaringenin ameliorate diabetic-related metabolic dysfunctions in mice. J Nutr Biochem. 2017 Apr 6;45:39-47.