Reduced binding of 3H-spiroperidol to lymphocyte in Wilson's disease

Biochemical studies of CSF from patients with Wilson's disease (WD) have increased that alterations in the state of dopaminergic and serotoninergic systems are similar to those manifested in Parkinson's disease. Recently, the density of dopaminergic receptors on lymphocytes has been found to be diminished in Parkinson's disease. In the present study, 3H-spiroperidol binding was evaluated in lymphocytes acquired from 12 patients suffering from WD, as compared to blood donors. A significant decrease in the number of binding sites (Bmax) was observed in the lymphocytes of the WD patients. There was no clear relationship between clinical status, age and duration of the disease and the alterations in receptor density. The mechanism underlying the decrease in lymphocyte 3H-spiroperidol binding sites in WD demands clarification.