Polyphenol-Mediated Neuroprotection Against Traumatic Injury to the Nervous System

Polyphenols are a broad class of chemicals that come from plants that have been shown to have the ability to defend the central and peripheral nervous systems against damage. Flavonoids, lignans, curcuminoids, phenolic acids, and stilbenes are members of this class and have potent anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant qualities. Through influencing signaling pathways like NF-κB, Nrf2, PI3K/Akt, and MAPK, maintaining mitochondrial function, and lowering oxidative stress, polyphenols help neuronal survival and functional recovery in traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI). They increase Schwann cell activity, decrease neuroinflammation, and encourage axonal regeneration in peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs). Strong neuroprotective effects are demonstrated by substances such as gallic acid, EGCG, resveratrol, hesperidin, curcumin, and quercetin. The classification, origins, and processes of polyphenols are highlighted in this chapter, with an emphasis on how they help to promote repair and lessen secondary damage in neurotrauma.