Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Tier 4 — Narrative / commentaryPeer-reviewed

Dietary polyphenols and sarcopenia: epigenetic mechanisms and geroscience perspectives for muscle health in aging

Guilherme da Silva Rodrigues; Leonardo Santos Lopes da Silva; Andressa Crystine da Silva Sobrinho; Jonas Benjamim; Gabriela Ferreira Abud; Gabriela Ueta Ortiz; Ellen Cristini de Freitas; Carlos Roberto Bueno Júnior

Frontiers in Aging · 2026

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Summary

This narrative review synthesises evidence on how dietary polyphenols modulate epigenetic processes and signalling pathways implicated in sarcopenia, a key aspect of ageing. The authors argue that compounds such as resveratrol and curcumin may reduce inflammaging and oxidative stress whilst enhancing mitochondrial function, thereby preserving muscle health in older adults. The review emphasises integration of polyphenol intake with physical exercise as part of broader geroscience strategies and identifies epigenetic biomarkers as important future research targets.

Regional applicability

The paper is a mechanistic and literature review with no country-specific data; findings on polyphenol biochemistry and sarcopenia prevention are broadly transferable to United Kingdom populations and clinical practice. However, translation to UK dietary recommendations would require population-specific evidence on polyphenol intake levels, food sources, and efficacy in British older adult cohorts.

Key measures

Epigenetic mechanisms (DNA methylation, histone modifications, microRNA regulation); signalling pathways (mTOR, NF-κB, AMPK); muscle mass and strength; oxidative stress markers; inflammatory biomarkers; mitochondrial function

Outcomes reported

The review examined how dietary polyphenols (resveratrol, quercetin, epigallocatechin gallate, curcumin) modulate molecular and epigenetic pathways to preserve muscle mass and strength in older adults. It synthesised evidence on polyphenols' potential in preventing or attenuating sarcopenia through effects on oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial function.

Theme
Nutrition & health
Subject
Phytochemicals & bioactive compounds
Study type
Narrative Review
Study design
Narrative review
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
System type
Human clinical
DOI
10.3389/fragi.2025.1696473
Catalogue ID
NRmu2o2hkg-0cv

Topic tags

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