Neuroprotective Effects of Epicatechin against Oxidative Stress-Induced Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

ABSTRACT: Oxidative stress is crucial in the pathogenesis of cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative diseases. Epicatechin, a natural flavanol abundant in cocoa, is a promising neuroprotective agent because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of epicatechin in mitigating oxidative stress-induced cognitive impairment in animal models. A systematic review of in vivo rodent studies was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, including studies reporting cognitive- and brain-based biochemical outcomes following epicatechin administration. The results indicated that epicatechin significantly improved the cognitive performance of rodents in the Morris water maze test, includin

SUBMITTER: Yoon YC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12333364 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature