Soybean aglycones antioxidant activity. A theoretical investigation

As a result of a B3LYP/6-311++G∗∗ density functional study, the antioxidant properties of soybean daidzein, genistein and glycitein aglycones are found comparable to those of many polyphenolic compounds. The most likely mechanism through which they may exert their action of free radical scavengers implies a direct transfer of a hydrogen atom. Computations indicate they are also excellent Fe2+ chelating agents that entrapping metal ions, prevent these from participating in free radicals generation through the Fenton reaction.70