Discovery offers molecular insights into link between Parkinson's and pesticides

Rotenone and paraquat, as well as MPTP inhibit various components of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, enough in itself to severely compromise substantia nigra neurones. The oxidative stress that ensues also oxidises Parkin, the product of a gene implicated in Parkinson's disease  , producing Parkin aggregation and malfunction.

Parkinson's disease genes risk factors and pathways