Parkinson's disease and glucose metabolism impairment.

Abstract

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. PD patients exhibit varying degrees of abnormal glucose metabolism throughout disease stages. Abnormal glucose metabolism is closely linked to the PD pathogenesis and progression. Key glucose metabolism processes involved in PD include glucose transport, glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, the pentose phosphate pathway, and gluconeogenesis. Recent studies suggest that glucose metabolism is a potential therapeutic target for PD. In this review, we explore the connection between PD and abnormal glucose metabolism, focusing on the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. We also summarize potential therapeutic drugs related to glucose metabolism based on results from current cellular and animal model studies.