The aim of our review is to analyse the most relevant studies worldwide addressing the benefits of some phytochemicals used in in vitro models of Parkinson's disease.
Neuroprotective effects of phytochemicals on dopaminergic neuron cultures
 
  Keywords
 
 
  
   Phytochemicals
  
 
 
  
   Neuroprotection
  
 
 
  
   Dopaminergic neurons
  
 
 
  
   Parkinson's disease
  
 
 
  
   Oxidative stress
  
 
 
  
   Neurotoxicity
  
 
Introduction.
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised by a loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, which results in a significant decrease in dopamine levels and consequent <dis>functional motor impairment</dis>.

Development.
Although its aetiology is not fully understood, several pathogenic mechanisms, including oxidative stress, have been proposed. 
Current therapeutic approaches are based on dopamine replacement drugs; these agents, however, are not able to stop or even slow disease progression. 
Novel therapeutic approaches aimed at acting on the pathways leading to neuronal dysfunction and death are under investigation.

Conclusions.
In recent years, such natural molecules as polyphenols, alkaloids, and saponins have been shown to have a neuroprotective effect due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 
The aim of our review is to analyse the most relevant studies worldwide addressing the benefits of some phytochemicals used in in vitro models of Parkinson's disease.

Introduction.
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised by a loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, which results in a significant decrease in dopamine levels and consequent functional motor impairment.

Development.
Although its aetiology is not fully understood, several pathogenic mechanisms, including oxidative stress, have been proposed. 
Current therapeutic approaches are based on dopamine replacement drugs; these agents, however, are not able to stop or even slow disease progression. 
Novel therapeutic approaches aimed at acting on the pathways leading to neuronal dysfunction and death are under investigation.

Conclusions.
In recent years, such natural molecules as polyphenols, alkaloids, and saponins have been shown to have a neuroprotective effect due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 
The aim of our review is to analyse the most relevant studies worldwide addressing the benefits of some phytochemicals used in in vitro models of Parkinson's disease.

The aim of our review is to analyse the most relevant studies worldwide addressing the benefits of some phytochemicals used in in vitro models of Parkinson's disease.