Some people exposed to paraquat may develop the signs and symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
Theoretical basis (Vaccari, 2017): structural similarity between paraquat and MPTP (N-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine), a byproduct of meperidine derivative drug MPPP. This resulted in definite cases of Parkinson's disease. The theory is that paraquat or a trace byproduct of its synthesis is toxic in a similar way.
Proposed mechanism: inhibition of mitochondrial complex I and/or oxidative stress
Case control studies have reported conflicting conclusions of a causal linkage.
Clinical features of a possible case:
(1) significant lifetime exposure to paraquat and possible other pesticides
(2) clinical signs and symptoms of Parkinson's disease
(3) exclusion of all the many alternative causes of Parkinsonism (carbon monoxide, etc)
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