Unveiling the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of syringic acid: mechanistic insights and pathway interactions

Background: Syringic acid (SA), a naturally occurring phenolic acid, has garnered significant attention for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the mechanisms underlying these effects and their potential therapeutic applications require further elucidation. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed and Web of Science (1965–2024) to investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of SA, with a focus on oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways. For insights related to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), we referenced Chinese literature. Articles focusing on agriculture, industry, and economics are excluded. Results: SA exerts potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities through multiple mechanisms. Specifically, it mitigates OS by scavenging free radicals, enhancing endogenous antioxidant defenses, and activating the KEAP1/NRF2 pathway. It also inhibits inflammation by downregulating key mediators, including NF-κB, TLR4, HMGB1, MyD88, and TRAF6. Crosstalk between NRF2, NF-κB, and PI3K/AKT pathways reveals SA’s involvement in cellular pathophysiological processes such as apoptosis, ferroptosis, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Conclusion: SA’s robust antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms underscore its promise as a therapeutic agent. Future research should address its pharmacokinetics, safety profile, and clinical potential.