The Neurochemistry Group investigates the effects of antioxidants and other plant secondary metabolites in neuronal cell cultures, particularly using in vitro models that recapitulate pathophysiologically relevant mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases. These in vitro models include primary cell cultures as well as cell lines. Our focus is on compounds that directly or indirectly modulate mitochondrial function, thereby reducing oxidative stress and stabilizing cellular bioenergetics and energy homeostasis. Alongside cell-based assays, we now employ preparations of isolated mitochondria to disentangle receptor- or cytosol-mediated signaling effects from direct actions at or within mitochondria. This dual approach will enable mechanistic precision and supports rational target selection. Ultimately, we aim to refine the mechanistic understanding of drugs already used in clinical or experimental pharmacology and to identify novel molecules as candidates for neuroprotective interventions.