Are animals with an extended lifespan due to Nrf2 mediated enhanced antioxidant response less prone to develop Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder and, as of today, the
pathogenesis remains unknown and only symptomatic treatment is available. This disease can be
modelled by the neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Lifespan
extension due to reduced protein intake is associated with an activation of the antioxidant/xenobiotic
response system, which are mainly controlled by a molecule called Nrf2. Increased levels of Nrf2
have also been shown to provide protection in the MPTP-model of PD. We will assess if mice, which
have an extended life span due to reduced protein intake are less prone to develop PD, and thus the
mechanisms involved could open new avenues for the development of treatments.