Phenolic compounds in hypertension: Targeting gut-brain interactions and endothelial dysfunction

Figure 1. Schematic drawing showing the mechanisms of phenolic compounds modulating gut-brain axis in hypertension. [Display omitted] •Phenolic compounds exert a beneficial role in hypertension treatment.•Phenolic compounds can target gut-brain interactions.•Phenolic compounds can reduce sympathetic activity, endothelial dysfunction and blood pressure.•The review presents and discusses the emerging findings using phenolic to prevent and treat hypertensive disorders. Hypertension is a systemic health condition that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. The etiology of hypertension includes pro-inflammatory processes, oxidative stress and sympathetic hyperactivity. Gut microbiota dysbiosis is associated with mucosal barrier defects and increased intestinal permeability, contributing to the activation of an inflammatory cascade. Phenolic compounds targeting the gut microbiota stimulate beneficial strains of bacteria and increase the production of metabolites capable of influencing the gut-brain axis, reducing inflammation and improving metabolic outcomes. The available literature indicates that the antihypertensive effects of phenolic compounds or phenolic-rich extracts may vary depending on the intervention group, type of hypertension, and dose administered. In general, phenolic compounds may protect the nervous system from oxidative stress and neuroinflammation as a consequence of gut microbiota, suggesting a neuroprotective effect against hypertensive diseases. Further studies should focus on the development of nutraceuticals containing phenolic compounds to elucidate their effects on gut microbiota composition and metabolite production and the repercussions on hypertensive diseases.