Valorization of Potato Peel Waste as a Source of Neuroprotective Polyphenols: Antioxidant and Mitochondrial Effects in HT-22 Neuronal Cells
摘要
Oxidative stress plays a key role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Polyphenols are promising bioactive compounds capable of counteracting oxidative stress, thereby preventing cognitive decline and reducing the risk of dementia during aging. The potato (Solanum tuberosum ssp. tuberosum) is a good source of polyphenols that have gained interest in human health due to their antioxidant properties. In particular, potato peel waste (PPW) represents a valuable and low-cost-effective source of polyphenols for developing a dietary supplement. However, the neuroprotective effect of PPW polyphenols is unknown. Here, we demonstrated for the first time that PPW polyphenols exert a neuroprotective effect against oxidative stress in vitro. We identified that aqueous ethanol was the most efficient solvent for extracting antioxidant polyphenols, with chlorogenic acid being the most abundant compound. Notably, PPW polyphenols enhanced mitochondrial function and antioxidant defenses in non-stressed neuronal cell line HT-22, suggesting potential benefits for neuronal health. Moreover, we showed that low concentrations of PPW polyphenols exhibited significant intracellular radical-scavenging activity in HT-22 neuronal cells exposed to oxidative stress. Collectively, these findings confirm the neuroprotective properties of PPW polyphenols and highlight their potential for sustainable valorization of potato peel waste. Future work will focus on scaling up extraction and formulation processes, assessing bioavailability and stability, and developing value-added nutraceutical or functional food prototypes aimed at promoting brain health.