Pomegranate Compound Shows Potential to Improve Heart Function by 80 Percent: Study - Video

A natural compound produced after eating foods such as pomegranates may improve heart function in experimental models of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), a form of heart failure.

Researchers found that urolithin A improved measures of heart function by up to 80% in animal models. The compound helped heart tissue relax, reduced fibrosis, or harmful scarring, and limited enlargement of heart muscle cells.

HFpEF occurs when the heart can pump blood normally but becomes stiff and cannot relax properly between beats. This makes it harder for the heart to fill with blood. The condition accounts for half of heart failure cases and can cause breathlessness, fatigue and reduced exercise capacity.

Urolithin A is produced by the body after consuming foods such as pomegranates and walnuts. Researchers have studied the compound because of its links to healthy ageing and mitochondrial function.

The study identified a potential mechanism behind its effects. Urolithin A activated a protein called PKG1α, which is involved in blood vessel function and heart muscle relaxation. The compound acted on an amino acid in the protein, triggering a pathway linked to improved cardiovascular function.

The researchers tested urolithin A in engineered human heart tissue made from stem cells. The compound improved tissue relaxation, providing laboratory evidence that the mechanism may be relevant to human heart function.

However, the findings remain experimental. The strongest results came from animal models, while the human heart tissue experiments were conducted in the laboratory. Clinical trials are needed to determine whether urolithin A can safely and effectively treat HFpEF in patients.

REFERENCE: Jie Su, et al.; Targeting PKGIα Cys 42 attenuates cardiac dysfunction in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Science Advances, 2026; 12 (34) DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aec8088