Pterostilbene for Parkinson's Disease
Also known as: Dimethylresveratrol, trans-3,5-Dimethoxy-4'-hydroxystilbene
Pterostilbene's BBB penetrance and SIRT1 activation address mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in PD.
Mechanism of Action
Pterostilbene crosses the BBB efficiently, activating SIRT1/PGC-1α for mitochondrial biogenesis in dopaminergic neurons. It reduces α-synuclein aggregation through enhanced autophagy and modulates neuroinflammation.
General mechanism: Dimethylated stilbenoid. SIRT1 activator (4x bioavailability of resveratrol), Nrf2 activator, NF-κB inhibitor, epigenetic modulator.
Current Evidence
Preclinical PD models show dopaminergic neuroprotection superior to resveratrol. No clinical trials for PD.
Clinical Status: Preclinical for PD. Available as supplement.
Safety Profile
Very safe. Well-tolerated at 250mg/day in clinical trials. No significant side effects. Present in blueberries.
Key Research Questions
- Is pterostilbene the more practical clinical candidate vs resveratrol for PD?
- Can pterostilbene slow α-synuclein pathology progression?