Introduction: Rotenone, a natural pesticide and neurotoxin, is commonly used to replicate key features of Parkinson’s disease in experimental models due to its ability to disrupt mitochondrial function and trigger oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuronal damage. As interest grows in plant-based therapies, compounds like proanthocyanidins and anthocyanidins found in berries, grape seeds, and colourful fruits, have shown beneficial effects due to their antioxidant and neuroprotective effects. These phytochemicals may counteract the harmful effects of rotenone by preserving mitochondrial health and reducing inflammation. This review aims to synthesize existing evidence on the protective roles of proanthocyanidins and anthocyanidins in animal and Drosophila models exposed to rotenone.
Methods: This review draws on a broad literature search across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to summarize current evidence on how proanthocyanidins and anthocyanidins protect against rotenone-induced toxicity.
Results: Key findings indicate that these compounds effectively reduce oxidative stress markers, improve mitochondrial integrity, and alleviate motor deficits in both models. Comparative analysis reveals similarities in mechanisms of action across species while highlighting differences in experimental approaches and outcomes.
Conclusion: Despite the promising preclinical results, significant gaps remain in translating these findings into human clinical applications. Standardized dosing regimens, deeper mechanistic studies, and clinical trials are essential to harness their full therapeutic potential. This review emphasizes the need for continued exploration of proanthocyanidins and anthocyanidins as adjunctive therapies in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson’s disease, offering a pathway toward novel, plant-derived interventions for human health.