matairesinol

Matairesinol is a plant lignan, a type of polyphenolic compound found in a variety of plant sources. It is one of several lignans present in foods and serves as a precursor to mammalian lignans involved in human metabolism and potential health effects.

In the human body, matairesinol is metabolized by intestinal microbiota to enterolactone and enterodiol, collectively known as enterolignans. These metabolites can interact with estrogen receptors and exhibit weak estrogenic activity, classifying matairesinol as a phytoestrogen. The efficiency of conversion to enterolignans varies among individuals and depends on the composition of gut bacteria.

Dietary sources of matairesinol include flaxseed, sesame seeds, and other seeds, as well as certain grains such as rye and oats, and a range of fruits and vegetables. The concentration of matairesinol varies with plant species, processing, and preparation. In typical diets, intakes are relatively modest, and supplements containing lignans are available but may differ in composition and potency.

Research on matairesinol and health outcomes is ongoing. Observational studies have suggested possible associations between higher lignan intake and reduced risk of some hormone-related cancers and cardiovascular benefits, but findings are inconsistent and not conclusive. Randomized controlled trials examining specific health endpoints have yielded mixed results, and no regulatory recommendations approve matairesinol for disease prevention or treatment. Its role appears to be that of a dietary phytoestrogen precursor with potential, but not definitive, health effects.