Targeting Glucose Metabolism: A Novel Therapeutic Approach for Parkinson’s Disease

Abstract

Glucose metabolism is essential for the maintenance and function of the central nervous system. Although the brain constitutes only 2% of the body weight, it consumes approximately 20% of the body’s total energy, predominantly derived from glucose. This high energy demand of the brain underscores its reliance on glucose to fuel various functions, including neuronal activity, synaptic transmission, and the maintenance of ion gradients necessary for nerve impulse transmission. Increasing evidence shows that many neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease (PD), are associated with abnormalities in glucose metabolism. PD is characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, accompanied by the accumulation of α-synuclein protein aggregates. These pathological features are exacerbated by mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation, all of which are influenced by glucose metabolism disruptions. Emerging evidence suggests that targeting glucose metabolism could offer therapeutic benefits for PD. Several antidiabetic drugs have shown promise in animal models and clinical trials for mitigating the symptoms and progression of PD. This review explores the current understanding of the association between PD and glucose metabolism, emphasizing the potential of antidiabetic medications as a novel therapeutic approach. By improving glucose uptake and utilization, enhancing mitochondrial function, and reducing neuroinflammation, these drugs could address key pathophysiological mechanisms in PD, offering hope for more effective management of this debilitating disease.