Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1
University of Lahore
2
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Govt College University Faisalabad
3
Department of Emerging Allied Health Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
4
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan.
5
Department of Emerging Allied Health Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
6
University Institute of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
10.22038/ajp.2026.27805
Abstract
Objective: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a multifaceted condition characterized by interconnected risk factors such as hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, hypertension, and central obesity. These factors increase the risk of cardiovascular disorders and type 2 diabetes. Due to the limitations of current pharmacological treatments, plant-derived polyphenols are being investigated as potential multitarget therapeutic candidates. This review critically explores the pharmacological potential of p-coumaric acid (p-CA), an abundantly present dietary phenolic acid, in addressing MetS.
Materials and Methods: A literature search using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science identified studies that highlighted the therapeutic potential and targeted molecular pathways of p-coumaric acid in preclinical studies.
Results: Preclinical findings suggest that p-CA confers benefits through multiple mechanisms, such as reducing oxidative stress, inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines through NF-κB suppression, and improving insulin sensitivity through IRS-1/PI3K/Akt pathway, and regulating lipid metabolism through AMPK, PPARα, and SREBP-1c signaling. Collectively, these effects lead to better glucose tolerance, improved lipid profiles, and enhanced liver function in high-fat diet and diabetic animal models.
Conclusion: With its pleiotropic activities and favorable safety profile, p-CA shows promise as a nutraceutical candidate for the prevention and management of MetS. Nonetheless, clinical evidence remains insufficient. Future research should prioritize improving its bioavailability, defining optimal dosing strategies, and conducting rigorous clinical trials to confirm its therapeutic potential.
Keywords
Main Subjects
)