A method for assessing whether a test substance or treatment is potentially neuroprotective or anti-oxidant, the method comprising the steps of exposing a cell to the test substance or treatment assessing the TSPO level in the cell, wherein a substance or treatment is considered to be potentially anti-oxidant and/or neuroprotective if the TSPO level is decreased. The method may comprise the step of assessing the level of mitophagy in the cell, wherein a substance or treatment is considered to be anti-oxidant or neuroprotective if the level or induction of mitophagy is increased and the TSPO level is decreased.
METHODS FOR IDENTIFYING AGENTS HAVING NEUROPROTECTIVE OR ANTI-OXIDANT ACTIVITY FOR REGUALTING; MITOCHONDRIAL FUNCTION.