In a PD mouse model, SNc dendrites are lost (left). But these neurons are protected by a calcium channel blocker (right).

SURMEIER/MACMILLAN

Reverting adult dopamine-secreting neurons to a more youthful state might slow or stop the progression of Parkinson's disease (PD), report Savio Chan, James Surmeier, and colleagues (Northwestern University, Chicago, IL).

The movement defects that characterize PD are caused by the death of dopaminergic neurons in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). SNc neurons have a pacemaking ability that ensures the regular release of small pulses of dopamine needed to maintain brain function.

Unlike other dopaminergic neurons, those in the SNc depend on calcium channels for pacemaking activity. According to Surmeier, however, mice that lack these calcium channels have no noticeable motor control deficits. His group now shows that the pacemaking activity of these mutant SNc neurons is...

The Rockefeller University Press
2007
The Rockefeller University Press
2007
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