Sleep deprivation and risk for Parkinson's disease: evidence and therapeutic implications

Abstract

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder characterized by dopaminergic neuronal degeneration in the substantia nigra, largely driven by misfolded protein aggregation. Sleep deprivation has emerged as a significant risk factor for neurological disorders, accelerating protein misfolding and dopaminergic neuronal loss through multiple pathological pathways. In this narrative review, we synthesize current evidence linking sleep deprivation to PD. We first outline epidemiological findings that support an association between insufficient sleep and increased PD risk. Building on these mechanisms, we review potential therapeutic strategies, such as behavioral and lifestyle modifications, circadian rhythm regulation, and targeted strategies addressing specific pathological pathways. Together, these insights underscore the importance of sleep in PD prevention and highlight opportunities for developing sleep-based precision therapies.

Keywords: Dopaminergic neurons; Intervention strategies; Parkinson’s disease; Sleep deprivation; α-synuclein.