Potential Crosstalk Between Parkinson's Disease and Energy Metabolism

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by the accumulation of alpha-synuclein (alpha-Syn) in the substantia nigra (SN) and the degeneration of nigrostriatal dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons. Some studies have reported that the pathology of PD originates from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which also serves as an energy portal, and develops upward along the neural pathway to the central nervous system (CNS), including the dorsal motor nucleus of vagus (DMV), SN, and hypothalamus, which are also involved in energy metabolism control. Therefore, we discuss the alterations of nuclei that regulate energy metabolism in the development of PD. In addition, due to their anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic and antioxidative roles, metabolism-related peptides are involved in the progression of PD. Furthermore, abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism are common in PD patients and exacerbate the pathological changes in PD. Therefore, in this review, we attempt to explain the correlation between PD and energy metabolism, which may provide possible strategies for PD treatment.

Automated summary

Parkinson's disease is characterized by the accumulation of alpha-synuclein in the substantia nigra and the degeneration of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. Studies suggest that the pathology of PD may originate from the gastrointestinal tract and progress upwards to the central nervous system, involving nuclei related to energy metabolism control. Metabolism-related peptides are implicated in the progression of PD, which is further exacerbated by abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism in patients. Exploring the correlation between PD and energy metabolism may offer potential strategies for treatment.