Research progress in retinoic acid in cognitive impairment disorders

doi:10.16352/j.issn.1001-6325.2026.05.0717

Abstract

Abstract: Retinoic acid (RA), as the principal active metabolite of vitamin A, plays a critical role in regulating neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and anti-inflammatory responses. Maladjustment of acid signaling pathways is closely associated with the pathogenesis of various cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer′s disease(AD) and vascular dementia. RA modulates signaling molecules and pathways such as retinoic acid receptors, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and NF-κB, thereby optimizing synaptic plasticity,suppressing inflammatory responses, and reducing oxidative stress. These mechanisms collectively contribute to maintaining homeostasis within the nervous system and delaying the progression of cognitive decline.

Key words: retinoic acid, cognitive dysfunction, neuroinflammatory response, synapsin

CLC Number:

R749

ZHANG Tengyu, WU Ting, WU Xiang. Research progress in retinoic acid in cognitive impairment disorders[J]. Basic & Clinical Medicine, 2026, 46(5): 717-720.

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