Therapeutic Effects of Phenolic Antioxidants in Neurotoxicity

Abstract

With increasing industrialization and environmental pollution, exposure to neurotoxins has become increasingly prevalent. These neurotoxins can cross the blood-brain barrier through various pathways, accumulate in the central nervous system, and lead to neuronal damage. In addition to exogenous toxins, endogenous factors such as mitochondrial dysfunction, byproducts of oxidative metabolism, and dysregulated neurotransmitters can also contribute to neuronal stress and damage. The lack of effective treatments capable of slowing or reversing the neurodegenerative process has made the development of new and efficient strategies a critical priority. In this context, nutraceutical approaches based on polyphenolic compounds with notable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are considered a promising alternative. This review focuses on 2 representative phenolic antioxidants—rosmarinic acid (RA) and cyanidin—whose neuroprotective effects are among the best characterized within the broad spectrum of phenolic compounds. It discusses the potential protective and therapeutic effects of RA and cyanidin on neurotoxicity based on the current literature.

Cite this article as: Kutlu S, Atukeren P. Therapeutic effects of phenolic antioxidants in neurotoxicity. Cerrahpaşa Med J 2026, 50, 0106, doi: 10.5152/cjm.2026.25106.