[Anthocyanins for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases].

Anthocyanins are water-soluble polyphenolic pigments widely present in fruits and vegetables. These compounds have extensive biological activity and are able to penetrate the brain and modulate its functions. In neurodegenerative processes, anthocyanins contribute to the survival of neurons. The mechanisms of the neuroprotective action of anthocyanins are associated with their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitoxic, and anti-apoptotic activities. The ability of anthocyanins to act on multiple therapeutic targets at once makes them useful for the prevention and treatment of the initial stages of neurodegenerative diseases. Anthocyanins have low stability and bioavailability which creates problems for their therapeutic use. Methods for the stabilization and delivery of anthocyanins into the body are considered.