Phytochemicals as Emerging Neuroprotective Agents in Parkinson’s Disease: Mechanistic Insights into Oxidative Stress and Autophagy

Seth Baffoe1, Dr Yadav Rajesh2, & Michael Akowuah3

1College of Medicine, Howard University,
2Lovely Professional University, Department of pharmacy,
3University of Medical Sciences Cuba.
DOI – http://doi.org/10.37502/IJSMR.2026.9503

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a slowly progressive neurodegenerative disorder that mainly affects movement due to the loss of dopamine‑producing neurons in the substantia nigra region of the brain. Increasing evidence suggests that oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, neuroinflammation, and defective autophagy play important roles in the development and progression of the disease. Although current treatments such as levodopa are effective in managing symptoms, they do not stop neuronal degeneration or disease progression.

In recent years, naturally occurring phytochemicals have gained attention for their potential neuroprotective effects. This review discusses the involvement of oxidative stress and autophagy in Parkinson’s disease and highlights the protective roles of selected phytochemicals, including vanillin, asiatic acid, ferulic acid, thymoquinone, and chrysin. Findings from experimental studies show that these compounds reduce oxidative damage, protect mitochondrial function, regulate apoptotic pathways, and support neuronal survival. Overall, phytochemicals appear to be promising candidates for future therapeutic strategies aimed at slowing the progression of Parkinson’s disease.

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