Protective effect and molecular mechanisms of magnolol in ischemic stroke

The treatment methods for ischemic stroke (IS) are currently limited, posing a significant challenge to global healthcare. Tissue-type plasminogen activator remains the only effective drug for IS, yet its use is restricted by narrow therapeutic windows and potential complications, limiting its benefits to a small fraction of patients. Magnolol, the primary bioactive compound extracted from the bark of Magnolia officinalis, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has demonstrated promising neuroprotective properties in IS models. This review synthesizes recent findings regarding the neuroprotective effects of magnolol in IS models. It highlights its advantages across various protective mechanisms, including antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, inhibition of autophagy, prevention of cell death, protection of the blood-brain barrier, and promotion of neuronal survival. By elucidating these mechanisms, this review highlights the therapeutic potential of magnolol in IS and provides a theoretical foundation for future experimental and clinical studies.