Collection of Articles on Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology (2026). 2
Abstract
The increasing incidence of Parkinson’s disease (PD) represents a significant public health challenge, highlighting the urgent need for more accessible and innovative treatments. Rocoto pepper (Capsicum pubescens), a South American chili pepper, has a unique composition of capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C. While previous studies have investigated the neuroprotective properties of several pepper species, the effects of Rocoto pepper on PD remain largely unexplored. The present study examines the effects of Rocoto pepper extract at varying concentrations on Parkinson’s disease using Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) as a model organism. C. elegans were exposed to four different concentrations of Rocoto extract (0%, 4%, 8% and 16%) applied onto the surface of Nematode Growth Medium (NGM) and fed E. coli OP50. Over the course of one week, behavioral assays were conducted to monitor locomotion and touch sensitivity. By exploring an overlooked yet culturally rich crop, this study calls attention to a broader and more inclusive approach in the search for sustainable medical solutions. Future research would test the individual compounds found in the pepper to determine which component has the greatest neuroprotective effects and the mechanisms it underwent in dopaminergic pathways. Expanding the range of tested concentrations, increasing the sample size, and replicating trials would strengthen the reliability of the findings.
Abstract The increasing incidence of Parkinson’s disease (PD) represents a significant public health challenge, highlighting the urgent need for more accessible and innovative [...]
The Effect of Rocoto Pepper at Varying Concentrations on Parkinson’s Disease in C. elegans Models 
