International journal of molecular sciencesMay 13, 2026

How Plant Compounds Affect Mitochondrial Health and Gut Bacteria in Aging

Longevity & Aging Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗

Updated May 14, 2026

Abstract

Natural polyphenols may influence key pathways associated with aging and mitochondrial regulation.

Dietary polyphenols like resveratrol, EGCG, curcumin, and quercetin are linked to geroprotective properties.
These compounds may regulate important signaling pathways involved in aging, such as AMPK, sirtuins, and mTOR.
Polyphenols could influence mitochondrial functions, including biogenesis and the removal of damaged mitochondria.
Interactions between polyphenols and the gut microbiome may produce bioactive metabolites that support mitochondrial health.
Overall, polyphenols are associated with modulating various aging-related biological processes.

Simplified

Aging is a multifactorial biological process characterized by progressive functional decline and increased susceptibility to chronic diseases. Targeting the molecular mechanisms underlying aging has therefore emerged as an important strategy for promoting healthy aging. Natural polyphenols, widely present in fruits, vegetables, tea, and medical and aromatic plants, have attracted considerable attention due to their geroprotective properties. This review examines current evidence on the ability of major dietary polyphenols, including resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), curcumin, and quercetin, to modulate the hallmarks of aging, with particular emphasis on mitochondrial quality control as a central regulatory mechanism. Evidence indicates that polyphenols regulate key signaling pathways involved in aging biology, including AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), sirtuins (SIRT), mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Through coordinated modulation of these pathways, polyphenols influence mitochondrial biogenesis, mitophagy, redox homeostasis, cellular senescence, and chronic inflammation. In addition, interactions between dietary polyphenols and the gut microbiome generate bioactive metabolites, such as urolithin A, which further contribute to mitochondrial regulation. Overall, polyphenols represent promising modulators of aging-associated pathways and may support strategies aimed at improving healthspan and reducing age-related disease risk.

Funding

Competing interests

Jaehoon Bae is a Guest Editor of this Special Issue and had no involvement in the peer-review process of this manuscript. The remaining authors declare no conflict of interest.

PubMed

How Plant Compounds Affect Mitochondrial Health and Gut Bacteria in Aging

Abstract

Funding

Competing interests

You found one interesting study. We’ll send the next 7.

What Lands in Your Inbox Each Week:

Recent issues from the longevity & aging brief

Abstract

Funding

Competing interests

Related papers

You found one interesting study. We’ll send the next 7.

What Lands in Your Inbox Each Week:

Recent issues from the longevity & aging brief