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Quercetin Protects against MPP+/MPTP-Induced Dopaminergic Neuron Death in Parkinson's Disease by Inhibiting Ferroptosis

Zhi-Hao Lin, Yi Liu, Nai-Jia Xue, R. Zheng, Yi-Qun Yan, Zhong-Xuan Wang, Yao-Lin Li, Chang-Zhou Ying et al.

Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2022

153 citations

Abstract

Ferroptosis, a novel form of regulated cell death, is caused by accumulation of lipid peroxides and excessive iron deposition. This process has been linked to the death of dopaminergic neurons in substantia nigra compacta (SNc) of Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. Quercetin (QCT), a natural flavonoid, has multiple pharmacological activities. However, it has not been established whether QCT can protect against dopaminergic neuron death by inhibiting ferroptosis. In this study, we investigated the potential antiferroptotic effects of QCT in cellular models established using specific ferroptosis inducers (Erastin and RSL‐3) and MPP+. The effects were also explored using MPTP‐induced PD mouse models. The cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assay was performed to assess cell viability. Variations in mitochondrial morphology were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) while the mitochondrial membrane potential, mass, and ROS were measured by fluorescent probes. Lipid peroxidation levels were assayed through measurement of lipid ROS, MDA, GSH, and SOD levels. The effects of QCT on MPTP‐induced behavioral disorders were examined by rotarod and open field tests. In vitro and in vivo, QCT significantly inhibited ferroptosis by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) protein. Additionally, QCT ameliorated motor behavioral impairments and protected against the loss of dopaminergic neurons in MPTP‐induced PD models. Interestingly, Nrf2 knockdown alleviated…

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