Urolithin A
A mitophagy-enhancing metabolite that research suggests may support muscle function and cellular health
Human Trials
8
312 participants
Risk Level
Monthly Cost
Premium supplement with limited manufacturers
Quick Facts
- Category
- Supplement
- Research Field
- Supplements
- Evidence Grade
- B- – Promising
- Risk Level
- Low
- Monthly Cost
- $89 – $179
- Human Trials
- 8
Typical Dose
500–1000 mg/day
Range
250–2000 mg/day
For informational purposes only – not medical advice. See disclaimer
Research Velocity
Mechanism of Action
Urolithin A activates mitophagy, the cellular process that removes damaged mitochondria and promotes the formation of new, healthy mitochondria. Research indicates it works by inducing the PINK1/Parkin pathway and enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis. Studies suggest this mechanism may support muscle function, cellular energy production, and overall metabolic health.
Overview
Urolithin A is a metabolite produced by gut bacteria from ellagitannins found in pomegranates, berries, and nuts. Research indicates it uniquely activates mitophagy, the cellular recycling process that removes damaged mitochondria and promotes the generation of new, healthy ones. This mechanism has made it a compound of significant interest in longevity research, as mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with aging and various age-related conditions.
Human trials suggest urolithin A supplementation may improve muscle endurance, exercise performance, and biomarkers of mitochondrial health. Studies indicate it is generally well-tolerated with a good safety profile when taken at recommended doses. However, natural production of urolithin A varies significantly between individuals based on gut microbiome composition, with some people unable to produce meaningful amounts from dietary sources.
While the research is promising, most human studies have been relatively small and short-term. The compound represents an interesting intersection of microbiome science and mitochondrial biology, though more extensive clinical trials are needed to fully establish its long-term effects and optimal dosing strategies for different populations.
Known Interactions
- May interact with medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes
- Potential interactions with anticoagulant medications due to effects on platelet function
- May enhance effects of other mitochondrial-targeting supplements
Legal Status by Country
Your country (United States)
GRAS status granted by FDA
Available without prescription in:
Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Germany, India, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Panama, Russia, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, UAE, United Kingdom, United States
📍 = your selected country · ✈️ = medical tourism destination · Always verify current local regulations before travel.
Key Research
- 2019
Foundational study demonstrating mitophagy induction and lifespan extension
- 2021
Key human trial showing muscle endurance improvements in aging population
- 2020
Safety and biomarker study in healthy humans
- 2021
Randomized controlled trial demonstrating exercise performance benefits
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Last verified: 2026-03-19