Mitochondrial Targeting by Resveratrol in Parkinson’s Disease: A Multifaceted Approach Against Oxidative Damage and Neurodegeneration

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Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and other neurodegenerative diseases involve the progressive loss of neurons. Dysfunction of mitochondria, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation are the principal mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of such diseases. Neurons have high metabolic activity and limited regeneration capacity; therefore, they are particularly sensitive to oxidative damage. Mitochondria, only ATP generators for the cell through oxidative phosphorylation, also produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) as byproducts. When produced in excess amounts, ROS cause oxidative stress that leads to damaged mitochondria and then neuronal apoptosis this is how PD progresses.

 In the past few years, resveratrol (trans-3,5,4'-trihydroxystilbene) has been discovered as a natural polyphenol from red grapes, berries, peanuts, and red wine with great potential as a neuroprotective agent. Apart from its long-known antioxidant activity it has been recognized for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, & cardioprotective properties. More recently, it has been in the spotlight for its potential for neuroprotection in neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's Disease (PD). While classified as a nutraceutical, its mechanisms have made it an increasing area of research. Its main neuroprotective mechanism is counteracting oxidative stress, one of the main factors involved in PD pathogenesis. Through oxidative phosphorylation, mitochondria generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), which in high levels lead to oxidative damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuronal death. Resveratrol acts as an antioxidant by neutralizing free radicals, decreasing ROS, and blocking complex III of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, and activating antioxidant enzymes.