Doxycycline as a potential therapeutic agent in parkinson's Disease

Abstract

Objective: This literature review analyzes available evidence on doxycycline (DOX) as a potential therapeutic agent for Parkinson's Disease (PD), focusing on its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Literature Review: PD is characterized by progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, leading to debilitating motor and non-motor symptoms. Emerging evidence implicates neuroinflammation as a key driver of disease progression, making it a promising therapeutic target. DOX, a second-generation tetracycline, demonstrates neuroprotective properties through multiple mechanisms, including high liposolubility, blood-brain barrier permeability, inhibition of α-synuclein aggregation, and suppression of microglial activation. Experimental models show DOX reduces neuronal degeneration by 40%-60% in the substantia nigra, correlating with improved motor function scores (p<0.01).. Final Considerations: While preclinical data support DOX's dopaminergic neuroprotection, clinical validation remains essential. Drug repurposing strategies using DOX could accelerate therapeutic development for PD, though optimal dosing regimens require further investigation. neuroprotection, but clinical studies are needed to validate its efficacy in PD. The repurposing of this antibiotic may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases.