The role of mitochondria in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease

Authors

• Oyinkansola Mudasiru, The University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyFollow
• Vivian Etugbo, The University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyFollow
• Bhuvana Lakkasetter, The University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyFollow
• Claudia Biguetti, The University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyFollow
• Reginald Adiele, The University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyFollow

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

7-31-2026

Abstract

Introduction: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the degeneration of the dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra that leads to motor and non-motor dysfunctions. Emerging evidence highlights mitochondrial dysfunction as a key factor in PD pathogenesis. This project aims to investigate the pathophysiology of PD, highlighting the involvement of oxidative stress, and examining current and emerging therapeutic approaches aimed at restoring mitochondrial function.

Methodology: A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar within the 2004-2024 date range. Keywords included “Parkinson’s disease”, “mitochondrial dysfunction", “oxidative stress”, and neurodegeneration”. Data was extracted regarding mitochondrial pathways, respiratory chain activity, and genetic mutations. Analysis was conducted of publicly available datasets to identify the role of mitochondria in the progress of PD.

Result: Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a central role in neurodegeneration. Mitochondria complex 1 deficiency is one of the main drivers of the disease while mutated genes including PINK1 and PPRKN have also been linked to neuronal oxidative stress.

Future work: Future research will involve deeper pathway analysis of mitochondrial dysfunction in other neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s (AD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The long-term goal is to explore possible treatments and/or management options for PD.

Recommended Citation

Mudasiru, Oyinkansola; Etugbo, Vivian; Lakkasetter, Bhuvana; Biguetti, Claudia; and Adiele, Reginald, "The role of mitochondria in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease" (2026). School of Podiatric Medicine - Student Research. 50.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/sopm_mspub/50