protocatechuic acid

Protocatechuic acid (PCA) is a naturally occurring phenolic acid and a dihydroxybenzoic acid derivative found in many edible plants such as green tea, olives, white grapes, and Hibiscus sabdariffa. It is a major metabolite of antioxidant polyphenols including anthocyanins. PCA exhibits multiple pharmacological activities including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects both in vitro and in vivo. It has demonstrated protective effects against chemically induced liver toxicity and shows antimicrobial activity with potential synergistic effects when combined with some antibiotics. PCA also displays proapoptotic and antiproliferative properties against certain cancer cells while having mixed effects on tumor growth depending on dosage and timing. Additionally, it may enhance proliferation of neural stem cells by inhibiting apoptosis. PCA has been studied for its potential to inhibit chemical carcinogenesis as well as antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type 2. Commercially produced from vanillin, it is used clinically for its antibacterial effect especially in chronic bronchitis treatment.

Other names

3,4-dihydroxybenzoate3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid