Ameliorative Effects of Soy-derived β-Conglycinin on Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract

Beta-conglycinin, one of the major components of soy protein, is known to decrease visceral white adipose tissue weights and liver triglyceride concentrations more effectively than intact soy protein. Additionally, β-conglycinin has been shown to increase serum adiponectin concentrations in rats. Adiponectin, one of the adipocytokines secreted by adipocytes, is known to improve lipid metabolism, enhance insulin sensitivity, and suppress blood pressure. Therefore, consuming β-conglycinin could also provide these benefits. In a feeding study using OLETF rats, an obesity model, β-conglycinin significantly decreased mesenteric adipose tissue weight and liver triglyceride concentrations, and increased insulin sensitivity compared to casein. In another feeding study using spontaneously hypertensive rats, β-conglycinin suppressed both systolic and diastolic blood pressures compared to casein. In in both cases, feeding of β-conglycinin increased plasma adiponectin concentrations. These findings suggest that β-conglycinin has multiple physiological effects and can be a beneficial food component for ameliorating metabolic syndrome.

graphical abstract