Resveratrol and brain mitochondria

Abstract Neurons are highly energy- and oxygen-consuming cells needed for vital and complex brain functions. Dysfunction in energy production and imbalance in reactive oxygen species are the consequence of impaired mitochondrial function, a crucial organelle for different cellular signaling pathways. Undeniably, mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease. Therefore, strategies focusing on the maintenance of mitochondrial function, with antioxidant and antiinflammatory drugs are of huge interest. Resveratrol (RV) is a polyphenolic compound with antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects. Previous studies showed that RV modulates mitochondrial biogenesis and function and redox biology in multiple experimental models. In this chapter, we summarize RV effects on brain mitochondria to provide a better understanding of its molecular targets and mitochondrial-related parameters. Indeed, RV is a potential therapeutic agent to ameliorate mitochondrial dysfunction in different neurodegenerative disorders.