The Impact of Exercise on the Vulnerability of Dopamine Neurons to Cell Death in Animal Models of Parkinson's Disease
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) results in part from the loss of dopamine (DA) neurons. We hypothesize that exercise reduces the vulnerability of DA neurons to neurotoxin exposure, whereas stress increases vulnerability. We have outlined experiments to test this hypothesis in rats treated with one of several neurotoxins, beginning with 6- hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). Over the past year, we increased the size and training of our research team and made a number of observations of direct relevance to our hypothesis. We also have requested permission to expand our objectives to include critical studies on the mechanism of the actions of exercise, using both in vivo and in vitro approaches. Our focus will be on the actions of trophic factors and the roles played by intracellular signaling cascades.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA451406
Entities
People
- Amanda Smith
- Michael J. Zigmond
Organizations
- University of Pittsburgh