Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that a group of dietary-derived phytochemicals known as polyphenols are able to delay age-related disorders and to improve cognitive functions. In particular, polyphenols have been reported to exert their neuroprotective actions through the potential to protect neurons against injury induced by neurotoxins, an ability to suppress neuroinflammation, and the potential to promote memory, learning and cognitive function. Despite significant advances in our understanding of the biology of polyphenols, they are still mistakenly regarded as simply acting as antioxidants. However, recent evidence suggests that their beneficial effects are more likely to result from their capacity to modulate expression of genes that encode antioxidant enzymes, neurotrophic factors and cytoprotective proteins. Together, these processes act to maintain brain homeostasis and have the potential to prevent the progression of neurodegenerative pathologies.
Original language | French |
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Pages (from-to) | 181–187 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Cahiers de Nutrition et de Dietetique |
Volume | 49 |
Issue number | 4 |
Early online date | 15 Feb 2014 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Sep 2014 |
Keywords
- Polyphenols
- Cognition
- Neuroinflammation
- Neuroprotection
- Cell signalling
Profiles
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David Vauzour
- Norwich Medical School - Associate Professor in Molecular Nutrition
- Norwich Institute for Healthy Aging - Member
- Metabolic Health - Member
- Nutrition and Preventive Medicine - Member
Person: Research Group Member, Research Centre Member, Academic, Teaching & Research