An insight into plant polyphenols in prevention of brain aging

Abstract

With a global increase in the elderly population, brain aging-associated cognitive deficits and neurodegenerative pathologies have emerged as a major concern for healthcare and maintaining the quality of life. Age-associated neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by oxidative damage, inflammation, DNA damage, protein aggregation, and neuronal death leading to alteration of physiological and cognitive functions. Such complex etiology renders difficulty in treating neurological ailments and faces numerous pharmacological limitations, including adverse side effects, disturbance of body homeostasis, and high cost. In this regard, nutraceutical interventions including plant-derived dietary polyphenols have gained prominence in preventing cognitive aging and counteracting disease conditions. In this chapter, we provide comprehensive information on epidemiological and experimental studies supporting the pro-cognitive and neuroprotective potential of polyphenolic compounds during brain aging. The chapter also highlights the molecular mechanisms underlying neuro-nutraceutical potential of polyphenols, including gene expression, epigenetics, protein synthesis, and metabolic pathways. © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.