THE HORMETIC ROLE OF REDOX-ACTIVE POLYPHENOLS IN HUMAN HEALTH AND DISEASE

Abstract

Polyphenols are well-known antioxidant molecules, which present different mechanisms at several subcellular compartments. Polyphenols, in its oxidized quinone form, may act as potent regulators of the cellular redox status. Mitochondria, the cell’s powerhouse, adapt to environmental factors by producing effectors that activate multiple pathways related to oxidative stress balance. Targeting mitochondria with therapeutic agents is an effective therapeutic strategy in human health and disease. Re-designing natural products and improving intracellular addressing can be a promising strategy to improve the cellular antioxidant status and contribute to decrease oxidative stress.