The Protective Effect of Ellagic Acid and Its Metabolites Against Organ Injuries: A Mitochondrial Perspective

Abstract

Mitochondria are essential for maintaining health, and dysfunction of them leads to various diseases. Their role is not limited to energy production but serves multiple mechanisms varying from calcium hemostasis, reactive oxygen species production, and regulation of apoptotic cell death. In recent years, several strategies have been developed to preserve mitochondria. Ellagic acid (EA) is a polyphenol extracted from many plants. The intestinal microflora converts EA to urolithins with high bioavailability. EA and urolithins exhibit mitochondrial-protective effects by regulating mitochondrial complexes, sirtuins, mitophagy, and mitochondrial antioxidant enzymes. This review highlights the mito-protective effects of EA and urolithins on mitochondrial injuries induced by various drugs and toxic compounds.