ENHANCING PROTECTION OF DOPAMINERGIC NEURONS IN PARKINSON’S DISEASE THROUGH PCBP1 OVEREXPRESSION: INSIGHTS FOR ATHLETIC NEUROPROTECTION

Abstract

Objective: To explore the neuroprotective effects of PCBP1 overexpression on dopaminergic neurons within the framework of Parkinson's Disease (PD) and its implications for athletic neuroprotection. Methods: Utilizing the PC12 cell line as a dopaminergic neuronal model, we investigated the cellular responses to MPTP (a neurotoxin associated with PD) exposure in the context of enhanced PCBP1 expression. Results: Overexpression of PCBP1 in PC12 cells resulted in a significant reduction in apoptosis and an improvement in mitochondrial membrane potential when compared to control cells exposed to MPTP. This suggests that PCBP1 plays a crucial role in mitigating neuronal damage induced by neurotoxic factors. Conclusion: The data indicates that PCBP1 overexpression offers a protective advantage to dopaminergic neurons, potentially reducing the vulnerability to conditions like Parkinson's Disease. This protective mechanism could be particularly relevant in the context of athletic health, where maintenance of optimal neurological function is crucial. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of targeting PCBP1 pathways in the development of treatments for neurodegenerative diseases and in strategies aimed at enhancing neuroprotection in athletes.