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Applying the RatWalker System for Gait Analysis in a Genetic Rat Model of Parkinson's Disease
Published on: January 18, 2021
Chemically induced models of Parkinson's disease
Thilaga Thirugnanam1, Kirankumar Santhakumar1
1Zebrafish Genetics Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract:
Environmental toxins are harmful substances detrimental to humans. Constant exposure to these fatal neurotoxins can cause various neurodegenerative disorders. Although poisonous, specific neurotoxins at optimal concentrations mimic the clinical features of neurodegenerative diseases in several animal models. Such chemically-induced model systems are beneficial in deciphering the molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration and drug screening for these disorders. One such neurotoxin is 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), a widely used chemical that recapitulates Parkinsonian features in various animal models. Apart from MPTP, other neurotoxins like 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), paraquat, rotenone also induce specific clinical features of Parkinson's disease in animal models. These chemically-induced Parkinson's disease models are playing a crucial role in understanding Parkinson's disease onset, pathology, and novel therapeutics. In this review, we provide a concise overview of various neurotoxins that can recapitulate Parkinsonian features in different in vivo and in vitro model systems specifically focusing on the different treatment methodologies of neurotoxins.
Insights
Environmental toxins like MPTP can induce Parkinson
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Environmental toxins pose significant risks, potentially causing neurodegenerative disorders.
- Specific neurotoxins, at controlled doses, can model Parkinson's disease features in animals.
- Chemically-induced models are vital for understanding neurodegeneration mechanisms and testing drugs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review neurotoxins that induce Parkinsonian features in experimental models.
- To focus on the treatment methodologies for neurotoxin-induced Parkinsonism.
- To highlight the role of these models in Parkinson's disease research.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on neurotoxin-induced Parkinsonism.
- Analysis of in vivo and in vitro experimental models.
- Focus on 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), paraquat, and rotenone.
Main Results:
- Several neurotoxins, including MPTP, 6-OHDA, paraquat, and rotenone, effectively model Parkinson's disease.
- These models allow for the study of Parkinsonian pathology and molecular mechanisms.
- The review emphasizes various treatment strategies applicable to these models.
Conclusions:
- Chemically-induced Parkinson's disease models are indispensable tools for research.
- Understanding neurotoxin effects aids in developing novel therapeutics for Parkinson's disease.
- Further research into treatment methodologies for neurotoxin exposure is crucial.
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