Molecular Mechanism of MLC 901 in Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Review

Ischemic stroke is the leading cause of stroke all around the world. Ischemic stroke can cause severe and irreversible damage to the brain. Brain neuroprotection is a promising treatment strategy. Moleac (MLC) 901, a traditional Chinese medicine, is one alternative adjunctive therapy that enhances neuroprotection. The molecular mechanism of MLC 901 in reducing brain damage in stroke needs to be further explored. Therefore, a review was conducted. MLC 901 effectively improves cognitive function and aids in poststroke recovery by promoting neuroprotection and neuroplasticity in neurons that have suffered ischemic damage. It also increases blood supply to the brain. Studies have shown that MLC 901 operates through complex pathways, particularly by stimulating brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression, facilitating neurogenesis, promoting cell proliferation, and aiding in neuronal growth. These mechanisms collectively contribute to its neuroprotective effects by helping neurons survive, repairing brain tissue, and enhancing functional recovery after a stroke. Ischemic stroke induces a cascade leading to apoptosis. MLC 901 has neuroprotective and neuroplasticity effects by stimulating cell proliferation, synaptogenesis, and neuronal growth by various pathways, thereby inhibiting apoptosis and inflammation in acute ischemic stroke. MLC 901 reduces brain damage, improves motor function, and increases survival rate in acute ischemic stroke.