Modulation of Nrf2 by Olive Oil and Wine Polyphenols and Neuroprotection
Miriam Martínez-Huélamo,
Jose Rodríguez-Morató,
Anna Boronat,
Rafael de la Torre
Affiliations
Miriam Martínez-Huélamo
Integrated Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, IMIM-Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Jose Rodríguez-Morató
Integrated Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, IMIM-Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Anna Boronat
Integrated Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, IMIM-Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Rafael de la Torre
Integrated Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, IMIM-Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Strong adherence to a Mediterranean diet is associated with improved cognitive function and a lower prevalence of mild cognitive impairment. Olive oil and red wine are rich sources of polyphenols which are responsible in part for the beneficial effects on cognitive functioning. Polyphenols induce endogenous antioxidant defense mechanisms by modulating transcription factors such as the nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2). This review discusses the scientific data supporting the modulating effect of olive oil and red wine polyphenols on Nrf2 expression, and the potential health benefits associated with cognitive functioning.