Neuroprotective properties of Spanish red wine and its isolated polyphenols on astrocytes

► Free radicals exert cellular damage by oxidising proteins, lipids and DNA. ► The oxidative damage may be decreased by polyphenolic compounds. ► Merlot red wine polyphenols exert a neuroprotective effect against oxidative damage. ► Effect is due to radical-scavenging activity and enhancement of antioxidant enzymes.