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Decrease of 1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline synthesizing enzyme activity in the brain areas of aged rat
Elhadi Absi1, Juan Parrado, Antonio Ayala
1Departamento de Bioquimica, Bromatologia y Toxicologia, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, C/Prof Garcia Gonzalez s/n, 41012, Seville, Spain.
Brain Research
|November 7, 2002
Summary
The brain enzyme 1-Methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline synthesizing enzyme (1-MeTIQse) is found in key areas like the substantia nigra. Its activity significantly decreases in these regions with age, particularly in rats.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
- Aging Research
Background:
- 1-Methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline (1-MeTIQ) is an endogenous monoamine with neuroprotective properties against toxins like MPP(+).
- 1-MeTIQ is synthesized in the brain by the enzyme 1-MeTIQ synthesizing enzyme (1-MeTIQse).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the regional distribution of 1-MeTIQse activity in the rat brain.
- To determine how 1-MeTIQse activity changes with aging in specific brain regions.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme activity assays were performed on brain homogenates from rats of different ages (3 and 24 months).
- Regional brain distribution analysis of 1-MeTIQse was conducted.
Main Results:
- 1-MeTIQse activity was detected throughout the rat brain, with highest concentrations in dopaminergic areas (striatum, substantia nigra) and the cerebral cortex.
- A significant reduction (approximately 50%) in 1-MeTIQse activity was observed in aging rats (24 months) in the substantia nigra, striatum, and cerebral cortex.
Conclusions:
- The distribution of 1-MeTIQse suggests a role in protecting vulnerable neuronal populations, particularly dopaminergic neurons.
- Age-related decline in 1-MeTIQse activity in key brain regions may contribute to increased susceptibility to neurodegeneration, potentially relevant to Parkinson's disease etiology.