Antioxidant

Some isoflavones act as antioxidants to counteract damaging effects of free radicals in tissues. Genistein has a converse effect in this area compared to other isoflavones; It stimulates a step in nitrate synthesis, which is oxidation

Molecular function

Genistein influences several targets in living cells. One important function is the inhibition of several tyrosine kinases. Genistein also inhibits the mammalian hexose transporter GLUT1 and contraction of several types of smooth muscles. Genistein can bind to the CFTR channel, potentiating its opening at low concentration and inhibiting it a higher doses.