The Effects of Ellagic Acid upon Brain Cells: A Mechanistic View and Future Directions

Neurochem Res. 2016 Jun;41(6):1219-28. doi: 10.1007/s11064-016-1853-9. Epub 2016 Feb 4.

Abstract

Ellagic acid (EA, 2,3,7,8-tetrahydroxy-chromeno; C14H6O8) is a polyphenol derived from fruits (pomegranates, berries) and nuts. EA exhibits antioxidant capacity and induces anti-inflammatory actions in several mammalian tissues. EA has been characterized as a possible neuroprotective agent, but the number of reports is still limited to conclude whether and how EA exerts neuroprotection in humans. In this regard, performing additional studies considering the potential beneficial and/or toxicological roles for EA on brain cells would be an important step towards fully understanding of when and how EA may be securely utilized by humans as a neuroprotective agent. The aim of the present work is to discuss data related to the neuronal and glial effects of EA and the mechanisms underlying such events. Moreover, future directions are suggested as a potential guide to be utilized by researchers interested in investigating the neuronal and glial actions of EA hereafter.

Keywords: Antioxidant; Brain; Ellagic acid; Glia; Neuron.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antioxidants / pharmacology
  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use
  • Brain / cytology*
  • Brain / drug effects*
  • Brain / pathology
  • Brain Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Brain Neoplasms / pathology
  • Ellagic Acid / pharmacology*
  • Ellagic Acid / therapeutic use*
  • Forecasting
  • Humans
  • Neurons / drug effects*
  • Neurons / pathology
  • Neuroprotective Agents / pharmacology
  • Neuroprotective Agents / therapeutic use
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Neuroprotective Agents
  • Ellagic Acid