Mitochondria-Targeted Protective Compounds in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Diseases

Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2015:2015:408927. doi: 10.1155/2015/408927. Epub 2015 Apr 29.

Abstract

Mitochondria are cytoplasmic organelles that regulate both metabolic and apoptotic signaling pathways; their most highlighted functions include cellular energy generation in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), regulation of cellular calcium homeostasis, balance between ROS production and detoxification, mediation of apoptosis cell death, and synthesis and metabolism of various key molecules. Consistent evidence suggests that mitochondrial failure is associated with early events in the pathogenesis of ageing-related neurodegenerative disorders including Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Mitochondria-targeted protective compounds that prevent or minimize mitochondrial dysfunction constitute potential therapeutic strategies in the prevention and treatment of these central nervous system diseases. This paper provides an overview of the involvement of mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, with particular attention to in vitro and in vivo studies on promising endogenous and exogenous mitochondria-targeted protective compounds.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease / drug therapy*
  • Animals
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Humans
  • Mitochondria / drug effects
  • Mitochondria / metabolism*
  • Parkinson Disease / drug therapy*
  • Protective Agents / pharmacology
  • Protective Agents / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Protective Agents