Abstract
MPTP administration induces a fairly selective lesion of substantia nigra dopaminergic neurons both in animals and humans. This characteristic of MPTP has led to the best available model of Parkinson's disease and neuronal degenerations. MPTP toxicity is actually provoked by MPP+ which results after oxidation by MAO-B. Possible mechanism of action of MPP+ include: 1) Mitochondrial lesion. 2) Free radicals generation. 3) Trapping of MPP+ by highly melanized neurons. This article reviews the mechanisms of toxicity by MPTP and its neuropathological characteristics.
Publication types
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English Abstract
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Review
MeSH terms
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1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine / pharmacokinetics
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Animals
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Biotransformation
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Dopamine / metabolism
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Free Radicals
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MPTP Poisoning*
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Macaca
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Melanins / metabolism
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Mitochondria / drug effects
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Mitochondria / pathology
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Monoamine Oxidase / metabolism
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Nerve Degeneration
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Oxidation-Reduction
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Parkinson Disease, Secondary / etiology
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Parkinson Disease, Secondary / pathology*
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Substantia Nigra / drug effects*
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Substantia Nigra / pathology
Substances
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Free Radicals
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Melanins
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neuromelanin
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1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine
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Monoamine Oxidase
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Dopamine