iLCT Pipeline Project: Carnosic acid

About the study

In this study, Dr Sinead A. O’Sullivan and Prof. Donato A. Di Monte at the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) will be exploring the suitability of carnosic acid as a potential treatment for Parkinson’s. Carnosic acid is a naturally occurring compound derived from rosemary and sage, which is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Carnosic acid was previously evaluated by the iLCT committee in 2021, and this study represents our third iLCT Pipeline project.

The researchers hypothesise that carnosic acid will achieve this by relieving oxidative stress – a driver of dopamine nerve cell (neuron) loss in Parkinson’s. Oxidative stress occurs when there are build-ups of molecules called ‘reactive oxygen species’ (ROS): toxic, unstable compounds created as a by-product of energy production that can cause damage to the cell if levels are too high. Antioxidants, such as carnosic acid, are compounds able to scavenge and inhibit the production of ROS, therefore reducing ROS levels and, consequently, oxidative stress.

Evidence suggests lowering oxidative stress may in turn improve other cellular processes implicated in Parkinson’s, including improving cellular energy production (mitochondrial function) as well as helping to mitigate build-up of the protein alpha-synuclein – a common feature and driver of Parkinson’s. Therefore, to assess whether carnosic acid is neuroprotective, the research team will be monitoring levels of alpha-synuclein, mitochondria impairment, and oxidative stress. Ultimately, we hope this project will provide the evidence necessary to determine whether carnosic acid should be further evaluated for Parkinson’s.