Just like a detective trying to solve a complex case, scientists have been tirelessly investigating the puzzle of Parkinson’s disease (PD). PD, the second most common neurodegenerative disease, presents with distinct motor symptoms. With millions of patients affected globally, understanding the underlying causes and finding potential treatments is crucial. Among the many factors involved in PD, one key player has emerged: hypoxia, a condition where the body is deprived of oxygen. Hypoxia is not only widespread in nature and diseases but is also closely linked to PD development. Studies indicate that hypoxia can enhance the production and clumping of alpha-synuclein (α-syn), a critical protein implicated in PD pathology. However, much remains unknown about how hypoxia contributes to α-syn accumulation and the overall progression of PD. By considering hypoxia as a common participant across various risk factors associated with PD, researchers hypothesize that this oxygen-deprivation condition may serve as a vital trigger or facilitator of α-syn pathology and PD development. This groundbreaking review offers fresh insights into the intricate web of PD’s origins and highlights the importance of investigating the role of hypoxia as a potential therapeutic target.
