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Horm Metab Res 2005; 37(5): 309-315
DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-861475
Original Clinical
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Soy Protein Influences Insulin Sensitivity and Cardiovascular Risk in Male Lean SHHF Rats

J.  Davis1, 2 , J.  Steinle2 , D.  A.  Higginbotham1, 2 , J.  Oitker2 , R.  G.  Peterson3 , W.  J.  Banz1, 2
  • 1Animal Science, Food & Nutrition, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL
  • 2Physiology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL
  • 3Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
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Publication History

Received 14 October 2004

Accepted after revision 6 January 2005

Publication Date:
22 June 2005 (online)

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Abstract

Previous investigations have demonstrated a marked effect of soy protein on multiple physiological parameters associated with the metabolic syndrome (MS). This preliminary study investigated the physiological effects of soy-based diets on cardiovascular risk in a unique rodent model that reflects early stages of MS. Briefly, lean male SHHF (+/cp) rats were randomly assigned to the following treatment groups: casein (control, C); low-isoflavone (LIS) soy protein isolate; high-isoflavone (HIS) soy protein isolate; or C+ 0.01 % rosiglitazone (CR). Rats were fed for thirty-six weeks. Liver weight, heart weight, total plasma cholesterol, fasting blood glucose were lower in soy-fed animals compared to control (p < 0.01). Body weight, kidney weight, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), fasting plasma insulin, and homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) score were also lower in LIS-fed rodents (p < 0.05) compared to casein treatment. All diet groups exhibited lower urine protein (p < 0.01) and small arteriole content (p < 0.05) compared to controls. LIS feed had a slightly more profound influence on body weight, liver metabolism, and insulin sensitivity. However, both soy diets exhibited marked improvements over a casein-based diet.

Key words

Soy protein - Rosiglitazone - Metabolic syndrome - Insulin - Cardiovascular disease

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William J. Banz, Ph. D., RD

Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition, Southern Illinois University

Carbondale, IL 62901-4317, USA

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Email: banz@siu.edu