Elucidating the multitarget neuroprotective mechanisms of protocatechuic acid in neurological disorders (Review)

Neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), cerebral ischemia, anxiety and depression pose significant global public health challenges due to their high prevalence and complex pathological mechanisms. Current therapeutic strategies primarily offer symptomatic relief, with limited efficacy in mitigating disease progression. Neuroprotection involves interventions aimed at preserving neuronal structure and function through mechanisms such as reducing oxidative stress, modulating inflammation and inhibiting apoptosis, presenting a promising avenue for treating these conditions. Protocatechuic acid (PCA), a natural phenolic acid compound prevalent in a variety of foods and herbal medicines, has received considerable attention for its notable antioxidant, anti‑inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. The present study systematically reviews the neuroprotective effects and molecular mechanisms of PCA in various neurological disorders (including AD, PD and cerebral ischemia). The present review highlights the multi‑target mechanisms of PCA, which act by mitigating oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis, while promoting neuronal regeneration. Furthermore, the present review integrates the body of evidence across neurological contexts to identify conserved protective pathways and discusses the translational potential of PCA, providing a foundation for its clinical application in treating neurological diseases.