Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Urolithin A is a metabolite produced by gut microbiota from ellagitannins, compounds found in foods like pomegranates and walnuts. Its interest in Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (IBD)—including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis—stems from its anti-inflammatory and gut barrier-protective properties observed in preclinical studies. Laboratory research and animal models have demonstrated that Urolithin A can reduce inflammatory cytokine production, inhibit NF-κB signaling (a pro-inflammatory pathway), and enhance mitochondrial function in intestinal cells. Additionally, Urolithin A may improve tight junction integrity in the gut epithelium, which is often compromised in IBD, thereby potentially reducing intestinal permeability ("leaky gut"). However, while these findings are promising, clinical evidence in humans remains limited. As of mid-2024, no large-scale, randomized controlled trials have specifically evaluated Urolithin A supplementation in patients with IBD. Some early-phase clinical studies have shown that Urolithin A is safe and bioavailable in humans, but they have not directly assessed its efficacy in treating IBD symptoms or disease progression. In summary, the scientific rationale for using Urolithin A in IBD is supported by preclinical data showing anti-inflammatory and gut-protective effects, but there is currently insufficient clinical evidence to recommend its use for this condition. Its evidence score is rated as 2, reflecting encouraging laboratory findings but a lack of robust human data.

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