Grape extract protects mitochondria from oxidative damage and improves locomotor dysfunction and extends lifespan in a Drosophila Parkinson's disease model.

A botanical extract (Regrapex-R) prepared from whole grape (Vitis vinifera) and Polygonum cuspidatum, which contains polyphenols, including flavans, anthocyanins, emodin, and resveratrol, exhibited dose-dependent scavenging effects on reactive oxygen species (ROS). The extract inhibited increases of ROS and protein carbonyl in isolated rat liver mitochondria following exposure to 2,2'-azobis (2-amidino propane) dihydrocholoride (AAPH), a potent lipid oxidant generator. The antioxidant effects of this extract were further demonstrated by protecting enzyme activities of the mitochondrial respiratory electron transport chain (complexes I and II) and pyruvate dehydrogenase in isolated liver mitochondria with AAPH insult. In human neuroblastoma cells (SKN-MC), pretreatment of extract protected cells against AAPH induced oxidation in maintaining cell viability and inhibiting excessive ROS generation. Extract was fed to transgenic Drosophila expressing human alpha-synuclein. This model for Parkinson disease recapitulates essential features of the disorder, including loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and a locomotor dysfunction that is displayed by a progressive loss of climbing ability measured using a geotaxis assay. Male transgenic flies fed the extract (0.16-0.64 mg/100 g of culture medium) showed a significant improvement in climbing ability compared to controls. Female transgenic flies showed a significant extension in average lifespan. These results suggest that Regrapex-R is a potent free radical scavenger, a mitochondrial protector, and a candidate for further studies to assess its ability to protect against neurodegenerative disease and potentially extend lifespan.