Unlocking Parkinson’s disease: harnessing the untapped potential of fatty acid metabolism in disease pathogenesis

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, and its rising incidence poses a growing burden on productivity and healthcare systems, particularly in the context of global population aging. Despite substantial advances in research, the pathogenesis of PD remains incompletely understood, and no curative or effective preventive therapies are currently available. Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between fatty acid (FA) metabolism and PD pathogenesis, positioning the modulation of FA metabolic pathways as a promising therapeutic strategy. This review examines the interplay between FA metabolism and key pathological processes, including oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and the abnormal aggregation of alpha-synuclein, within the context of PD. By integrating these perspectives, the article aims to advance understanding of disease mechanisms and identify novel opportunities for prevention, early diagnosis, and targeted treatment.