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Amphetamine-induced circling behaviour in MPTP-lesioned mice
The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology
|December 1, 1985
Summary
MPTP-induced dopamine depletion in mice did not block (+)-amphetamine-induced circling behavior. This suggests dopamine pathways remain functional for motor responses despite significant dopamine loss.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
Background:
- 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) is a neurotoxin that selectively destroys dopaminergic neurons.
- Dopamine depletion in the striatum is a hallmark of Parkinson's disease models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of MPTP-induced striatal dopamine depletion on (+)-amphetamine-induced circling behavior in mice.
- To assess the functional integrity of remaining dopamine pathways after neurotoxic insult.
Main Methods:
- Intrastriatal administration of MPTP in mice.
- Measurement of striatal dopamine concentration.
- Assessment of (+)-amphetamine-induced circling behavior.
Main Results:
- MPTP administration resulted in a 70% depletion of striatal dopamine.
- (+)-amphetamine successfully elicited circling behavior in MPTP-lesioned mice.
Conclusions:
- Striatal dopamine depletion induced by MPTP does not abolish the motor response to (+)-amphetamine.
- Remaining dopaminergic or related pathways can mediate circling behavior despite significant dopamine loss.