Epigenetic mechanisms of Parkinson's disease and potential epigenetic-based therapeutics.

BACKGROUND: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor impairments and a spectrum of non-motor symptoms, including cognitive decline, depression, and autonomic dysfunction. The etiology of PD remains incompletely understood. Beyond genetic factors, environmental exposures and epigenetic modifications are believed to be pivotal in its pathogenesis. MAIN BODY: In recent years, epigenetic research on PD has identified multiple critical targets, thereby providing a theoretical foundation for the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Alterations in DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs not only influence gene activity but also accelerate neuronal degeneration by regulating key pathways including oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Consequently, epigenetics-based interventions represent a promising avenue for future PD therapy. CONCLUSIONS: This article reviews how epigenetic processes contribute to the etiology of PD and explores potential epigenetics-based therapeutic approaches, thereby offering a valuable theoretical framework for future research in related fields.