The activity of catechol-O-methyltransferase in parkinsonian patients with "on-off fluctuations"

J Neural Transm (Vienna). 2000;107(1):105-11. doi: 10.1007/s007020050009.

Abstract

Motor fluctuations complicate therapy in Parkinson's disease (PD). The mechanisms responsible for motor fluctuations such as the on-off type, are poorly understood. Differences of activity of various enzymes, such as Catechol-O-Methyltransferase (COMT, E.C.2.1.1.6.) may influence the appearance of motor fluctuations and the quantity of metabolic products of levodopa. Aim of this study was to compare erythrocyte COMT-activity in Parkinsonian patients without and with motor fluctuations from the on-off type. No significant differences in COMT-activity appeared in both groups. We conclude that activity differences in COMT-activity do not contribute to the appearance of motor fluctuations in Parkinson's disease.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Catechol O-Methyltransferase / metabolism*
  • Disease Progression
  • Enzyme Activation
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motor Neurons / enzymology*
  • Movement Disorders / enzymology*
  • Parkinson Disease / enzymology*
  • Predictive Value of Tests

Substances

  • Catechol O-Methyltransferase