MTOR and Parkinsonism: On the other hand, pharmacological modulation of mTOR can substantially influence mitochondrial health by promoting mitophagy, enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis, and reducing oxidative stress.488 For example, treatment with rapamycin demonstrates mitochondrial protection in models of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.520,521 Compared to rapalogs, more potent mitophagy and metabolic reprogramming, as well as effects on mitochondrial dynamics and biogenesis, were observed upon treatment with second-generation mTOR inhibitors.522