Orally administered neohesperidin attenuates MPTP-induced neurodegeneration by inhibiting inflammatory responses and regulating intestinal flora in mice.

Parkinson's disease (PD), a neurodegenerative disease, is the leading cause of movement disorders. Neuroinflammation plays a critical role in PD pathogenesis. Neohesperidin (Neo), a natural flavonoid extracted from citric fruits exhibits anti-inflammatory effects. However, the effect of Neo on PD progression is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Neo on 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced PD in mice and its underlying mechanism. Our results indicated that Neo administration ameliorated motor impairment and neural damage in MPTP-injected mice, by inhibiting neuroinflammation and regulating gut microbial imbalance. Additionally, Neo administration reduced colonic inflammation and tissue damage. Mechanistic studies revealed that Neo suppressed the MPTP-induced inflammatory response by inhibiting excessive activation of NF-κB and MAPK pathways. In summary, the present study demonstrated that Neo administration attenuates neurodegeneration in MPTP-injected mice by inhibiting inflammatory responses and regulating the gut microbial composition. This study may provide the scientific basis for the use of Neo in the treatment of PD and other related diseases.