Abstract
The world of (poly)phenols arising from dietary sources has been significantly amplified with the discovery of low molecular weight (LMW) (poly)phenol metabolites resulting from phase I and phase II metabolism and microbiota transformations. These metabolites, which are known to reach human circulation have been studied to further explore their interesting properties, especially regarding neuroprotection. Nevertheless, once in circulation, their distribution to target tissues, such as the brain, relies on their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), one of the most controlled barriers present in humans. This represents a key step of an underexplored journey towards the brain. Present review highlights the main findings related to the ability of LMW (poly)phenol metabolites to reach the brain, considering different studies: in silico, in vitro, and in vivo. The mechanisms associated with the transport of these LMW (poly)phenol metabolites across the BBB and possible transporters will be discussed. Overall, the transport of these LMW (poly)phenol metabolites is crucial to elucidate which compounds may exert direct neuroprotective effects, so it is imperative to continue dissecting their potential to cross the BBB and the mechanisms behind their permeation.
Highlights
The world ofphenols arising from dietary sources has been significantly amplified with the discovery of low molecular weight (LMW)phenol metabolites resulting from phase I and phase II metabolism and microbiota transformations
Ring, together with functional groups have been linked to a huge variety of beneficial properties to human health, some of them related with brain health [1,2,3]
Carecho et al / LMWphenol metabolites across the Blood-Brain Barrier with neuronal signaling pathways, and by promoting the expression of proteins mainly involved in synaptic plasticity and neuronal repair [1,2,3]
Summary
Abbreviations: GSPE,Grape seed (Poly)phenol extract; PCA, Protocatechuic acid; BW, Body weight. 1GSPE was provided by used was Meganatural-AZ® GSPE as described by the authors. 5Hydroxytyrosol was provided by Seprox Biotech (Madrid, Spain)as described by the authors. 6Hazelnut extract was provided by La Morella Nuts S.A. (Reus, Spain) as described by the authors was a source of procyanidins. 7The original value (0.09 ± 0.07 g of protocatechuic acid /mL of microdialysis brain sample) presented by the authors was converted to nmol/g of tissue considering the brain density of 1 g.cm−3 and the molecular weight of PCA (154.12 g/mol). 8Homovanillic acid was also detected in the vehicle group and only for the highest dose (HT-100) homovanillic presented significant increases in the brain. 9The original value (0.4 g of ferulic acid/g of wet tissue) presented by the authors was converted to nmol/g of tissue considering the molecular weight of ferulic acid (194.18 g/mol).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
