Godos, Justyna and Carota, Giuseppe and Caruso, Giuseppe and Micek, Agnieszka and Frias-Toral, Evelyn and Giampieri, Francesca and Brito Ballester, Julién and Battino, Maurizio and Rodríguez Velasco, Carmen Lilí and Quiles, José L. UNSPECIFIED, UNSPECIFIED, UNSPECIFIED, UNSPECIFIED, UNSPECIFIED, francesca.giampieri@uneatlantico.es, julien.brito@uneatlantico.es, maurizio.battino@uneatlantico.es, carmen.rodriguez@uneatlantico.es, jose.quiles@uneatlantico.es (2025) Molecular mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of polyphenols: implications for cognitive function. EXCLI journal, 24. pp. 1262-1294. ISSN 1611-2156
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Abstract
Polyphenols are naturally occurring compounds that can be found in plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, herbs, spices, and beverages, the use of which has been linked to enhanced brain health and cognitive function. These natural molecules are broadly classified into two main groups: flavonoids and non-flavonoid polyphenols, the latter including phenolic acids, stilbenes, and tannins. Flavonoids are primarily known for their potent antioxidant properties, which help neutralize harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the brain, thereby reducing oxidative stress, a key contributor to neurodegenerative diseases. In addition to their antioxidant effects, flavonoids have been shown to modulate inflammation, enhance neuronal survival, and support neurogenesis, all of which are critical for maintaining cognitive function. Phenolic acids possess strong antioxidant properties and are believed to protect brain cells from oxidative damage. Neuroprotective effects of these molecules can also depend on their ability to modulate signaling pathways associated with inflammation and neuronal apoptosis. Among polyphenols, hydroxycinnamic acids such as caffeic acid have been shown to enhance blood-brain barrier permeability, which may increase the delivery of other protective compounds to the brain. Another compound of interest is represented by resveratrol, a stilbene extensively studied for its potential neuroprotective properties related to its ability to activate the sirtuin pathway, a molecular signaling pathway involved in cellular stress response and aging. Lignans, on the other hand, have shown promise in reducing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, which could help slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline. Polyphenols belonging to different subclasses, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and lignans, exert neuroprotective effects by regulating microglial activation, suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines, and mitigating oxidative stress. These compounds act through multiple signaling pathways, including NF-κB, MAPK, and Nrf2, and they may also influence genetic regulation of inflammation and immune responses at brain level. Despite their potential for brain health and cognitive function, polyphenols are often characterized by low bioavailability, something that deserves attention when considering their therapeutic potential. Future translational studies are needed to better understand the right dosage, the overall diet, the correct target population, as well as ideal formulations allowing to overcome bioavailability limitations.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | polyphenols, neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier, cerebral blood flow, neurotrophic factor |
| Subjects: | Subjects > Biomedicine Subjects > Nutrition |
| Divisions: | Europe University of Atlantic > Research > Scientific Production Ibero-american International University > Research > Scientific Production Ibero-american International University > Research > Scientific Production Universidad Internacional do Cuanza > Research > Scientific Production University of La Romana > Research > Scientific Production |
| Depositing User: | Sr Bibliotecario |
| Date Deposited: | 20 Oct 2025 10:44 |
| Last Modified: | 20 Oct 2025 10:44 |
| URI: | http://repositorio.funiber.org/id/eprint/17857 |
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