Phasic Dopaminergic Signaling and the Presymptomatic Phase of Parkinson's Disease
Abstract
The purpose of this project is to investigate the relationship between phasic dopaminergic signaling and behavior in an animal model of Parkinson's disease. The overall hypothesis is that, in rats with partial dopamine lesions mimicking the preclinical phase of Parkinson's disease, deficits in phasic dopaminergic signaling are associated with behavioral deficits. Phasic dopaminergic signaling will be characterized by chemical microsensors measuring dopamine, and electrophysiology is used to monitor the effect of dopamine on target cells. Several behavioral tests will be developed and assessed to identify deficits that occur during partial dopamine depletion. The major finding for Year 1 is that the amplitude of dopamine transients, electrically evoked by stimulation parameters consistent with phasic signaling, decreases in proportion to the degree of dopamine lesion, supporting the hypothesis of a deficit in phasic dopaminergic signaling following partial dopamine denervation. Five behavioral tests have been assessed but to date, only forelimb use asymmetry shows a similar dependence on the degree of dopamine lesion as seen with phasic signaling. Instrumentation and other technical work are ongoing in preparation for subsequent work in Years 2 through 4 of the project.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA430314
Entities
People
- Byron A. Heidenreich
- Paul A. Garris
- Tim Schallert
Organizations
- Illinois State University