Pd-ReOx/C catalysts with different Re contents were prepared and employed to catalyze the aqueous hydrogenation of itaconic acid in this study. The Pd-ReOx/C catalysts were characterized by XRD, TEM, BET, NH3-TPD and H-2-TPR. Results showed that the addition of ReOx species in supported Pd catalysts promoted the direct conversion of itaconic acid to 2-methyl-1,4-butanediol. The promoting effect was ascribed to the interaction between Pd and ReOx species, as has been proved by the characterizations. A 2-methyl-1,4-butanediol yield of above 80% could be obtained over Pd-3ReO(x)/C under the reaction condition of 180 degrees C, 4 MPa H-2. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.