EVIDENCE OF NEUROPROTECTIVE FLAVONOIDS PERMEABLE TO THE BLOOD-BRAIN BARRIER

Flavonoids are hydroxylated polyphenols found in plants and fruits that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective pharmacological effects in several brain-related conditions, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and inflammatory diseases. Objective: This study highlights research on neuroprotective flavonoids and endothelial monolayer modulators, aiming to advance the understanding of transcytosis mechanisms across the blood–brain barrier. Methods: Information from recent scientific production was collected, with bibliometric analysis in the Virtual Health Library (BVS), PubMed, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), EMBASE, MEDLINE, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS) and Web of Science databases. Results: In this review, we synthesized evidence regarding the neuroprotective effects of flavonoids, the mechanisms underlying the modulation of the cerebral endothelial monolayer, and the permeability of flavonoids into the Central Nervous System (CNS). Conclusion: The permeability of flavonoids in the CNS depends on several factors related to the physical, active, and metabolic structure of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the physicochemical profile of flavonoids. Bioflavonoids exhibit positive neuromodulators effects in the CNS.