The potential role of glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism in the treatment of Parkinson's disease

Purpose of ReviewParkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disease, which can cause progressive deterioration of motor function causing muscle stiffness, tremor, and bradykinesia. In this review, we hope to describe approaches that can improve the life of PD patients through modifications of energy metabolism. Recent FindingsThe main pathological features of PD are the progressive loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons and the production of Lewy bodies. Abnormal aggregation of & alpha;-synuclein (& alpha;-Syn) leading to the formation of Lewy bodies is closely associated with neuronal dysfunction and degeneration. The main causes of PD are said to be mitochondrial damage, oxidative stress, inflammation, and abnormal protein aggregation. Presence of abnormal energy metabolism is another cause of PD. Many studies have found significant differences between neurodegenerative diseases and metabolic decompensation, which has become a biological hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we highlight the relationship between abnormal energy metabolism (Glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism) and PD. Improvement of key molecules in glucose metabolism, fat metabolism, and amino acid metabolism (e.g., glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, triglycerides, and levodopa) might be potentially beneficial in PD. Some of these metabolic indicators may serve well during the diagnosis of PD. In addition, modulation of these metabolic pathways may be a potential target for the treatment and prevention of PD.

Automated summary

This review aims to improve the life of Parkinson's disease patients by modifying energy metabolism. The main pathological features of Parkinson's disease are the loss of dopaminergic neurons and the formation of Lewy bodies. Mitochondrial damage, oxidative stress, inflammation, and abnormal protein aggregation are considered the main causes of Parkinson's disease. Abnormal energy metabolism is another cause of Parkinson's disease. Improving key molecules in glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism may benefit Parkinson's disease and aid in its diagnosis and treatment.