In a groundbreaking review published in Current Molecular Pharmacology, researchers have delved into the therapeutic potential of phenolic acids for vascular cognitive impairment (VCI), a condition characterized by cognitive deficits due to cerebrovascular damage. VCI is a growing global health concern with limited treatment options, making the exploration of novel therapies like phenolic acids crucial. These naturally occurring compounds, found abundantly in plants, exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects, which could be harnessed to combat the complex pathology of VCI.
Qiudong Zhang, one of the lead authors, emphasized the importance of phenolic acids, stating, “Phenolic acids have shown remarkable potential in preclinical studies to mitigate cognitive deficits and cerebral damage. Their ability to target multiple pathological pathways makes them a promising candidate for VCI therapy.” The review systematically summarizes the classification, structure–activity relationships, and molecular mechanisms of phenolic acids, providing a solid foundation for future research.
Despite the promising findings, significant challenges remain in translating these compounds to clinical practice. Issues such as bioavailability and the need for brain-targeted delivery systems must be addressed. The authors advocate for interdisciplinary strategies, including pharmacogenomics and nanodelivery platforms, to overcome these hurdles. This comprehensive review not only highlights the therapeutic potential of phenolic acids but also underscores the urgent need for rigorous clinical trials to validate their efficacy and safety in treating VCI.
Journal
Current Molecular Pharmacology