Research progress on the molecular mechanisms of chlorogenic acid’s pharmacological effects and its advanced drug delivery systems

Chlorogic acid (CGA), a prevalent polyphenol formed in plants, is recognized for its broad spectrum of biological activities, including potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, andmetabolic regulatory effects. This review synthesizes evidence demonstrating CGA’s therapeutic potential across various conditions, such as hypertension, gout, atherosclerosis, and metabolic disorders. Key mechanisms involve neutralizing reactive oxygen species, modulating critical signaling pathways like TLR2/NF-κB and MAPK, enhancing insulin sensitivity, and influencing endothelial function by boosting NO production via eNOS phosphorylation. Despite these promising attributes, CGA’s clinical translation is hindered by significant bioavailability challenges stemming from poor solubility, rapid metabolism, and instability in physiological environments. To address these limitations, innovative drug delivery systems are being investigated. These systems, including polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles, and hydrogels, offer strategies to encapsulate CGA, thereby protecting it from degradation, improving its dissolution properties, and enabling controlled or targeted release at specific sites of action. Such advancements in delivery technology are crucial for enhancing CGA’s stability and bioavailability, ultimately bridging the gap between its demonstrated in vitro and preclinical efficacy and its realization as an effective therapeutic agent in human medicine.