Stem Cells as Potential Targets of Polyphenols in Multiple Sclerosis and Alzheimer’s Disease

Figure 2

The systematic representation for polyphenols targeting stem cells in MS. In case of MS, the proinflammatory cytokines induce an obstructive effect on neural differentiation, whereas anti-inflammatory cytokines have an opposite action. The dietary antioxidants are associated with reduction of MS pathogenesis, by controlling the activation of inflammatory cytokines, reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis, and regulating migration and differentiation of stem cells. Polyphenols such as resveratrol, curcumin, flavanoid enriched fraction AF4, extra virgin olive oil, catechins, quercetin, and white grape juice extract showed neuroprotective potential in MS by targeting NSC proliferation and differentiation and reducing the elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. Resveratrol potentiates its protective action through AhR and ER that activates the T-cells causing apoptosis. Further, resveratrol exerts its neuroprotective role by reducing the oxidative stress and improving mitochondrial functions through inhibition of NF-κB signaling which also results in remyelination. Quercetin and catechins along with resveratrol show an inhibitory effect on MMPs that inhibits cell migration and EGFR kinase activity.