ABSTRACTAimsInsulin‐like growth factor binding protein 2 (IGFBP2) is implicated in various neurodegenerative diseases. However, its role in Parkinson's disease (PD) is unclear.MethodsPD rat model was established by 6‐OHDA injection. After 3 weeks, mRNA‐seq was conducted. Rats received rIGFBP2 via intra‐MFB injection 6 h prior to 6‐OHDA infusion, and the effect of IGFBP2 in PD rats was investigated by western blotting, IHC, specific kits, JC‐1 staining, and TUNEL analysis. In vitro, PC12 cells were treated with 6‐OHDA, and CCK‐8, specific kits, Hoechst 33258 staining, Western blotting, and JC‐1 staining were performed to assess the IGFBP2's role.ResultsmRNA‐seq revealed DEGs in PD, with attention to downregulated IGFBP2. rIGFBP2 treatment aggravated neurobehavioral deficits, decreased TH expression, Ψm, ATP level and SOD, GSH‐Px activities but increased α‐synuclein, ROS, MDA, mitochondrial cytochrome c contents, cell apoptosis in 6‐OHDA‐lesioned rats, which might be mediated through inactivating IGF‐1R/AKT pathway. In 6‐OHDA‐treated PC12 cells, rIGFBP2 aggravated cell injury, demonstrated by decreased cell viability and increased apoptosis, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Co‐treatment with rIGFBP2 and rIGF‐1 partially reversed the effect of rIGFBP2 on cell damage.ConclusionIGFBP2 exacerbates neurodegeneration in PD through increasing oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis via inhibiting IGF‐1R/AKT pathway.