Urolithin A: Biosynthesis at a Glance and Biological Properties Supported by Recent Preclinical and Clinical Evidence

Urolithin A (Uro A) is a natural bioactive compound biosynthesized by the gut microbiota after the ingestion of foods that are rich in ellagic acid and ellagitannins, such as strawberries, pomegranate, raspberries and walnuts. Uro A is studied in preclinical and clinical studies for its numerous biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, cardioprotective and neuroprotective properties, while also possessing a therapeutic potential against metabolic syndrome and mitochondrial-enhancing effects. This narrative review briefly outlines the biosynthesis of Uro A and current evidence on its biological properties and its potential role in mitigating diseases, on the basis of literature searches performed on Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed/MEDLINE. In addition, recent clinical trials based on the supplementation with Uro A are summarized herein.