Preclinical evidence for a role of the nicotinic cholinergic system in Parkinson's disease

XA Perez - Neuropsychology review, 2015 - Springer
XA Perez
Neuropsychology review, 2015Springer
One of the primary deficits in Parkinson's disease (PD) is the loss of dopaminergic neurons
in the substantia nigra pars compacta which leads to striatal dopaminergic deficits that
underlie the motor symptoms associated with the disease. A plethora of animal models have
been developed over the years to uncover the molecular alterations that lead to PD
development. These models have provided valuable information on neurotransmitter
pathways and mechanisms involved. One such a system is the nicotinic cholinergic system …
Abstract
One of the primary deficits in Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta which leads to striatal dopaminergic deficits that underlie the motor symptoms associated with the disease. A plethora of animal models have been developed over the years to uncover the molecular alterations that lead to PD development. These models have provided valuable information on neurotransmitter pathways and mechanisms involved. One such a system is the nicotinic cholinergic system. Numerous studies show that nigrostriatal damage affects nicotinic receptor-mediated dopaminergic signaling; therefore therapeutic modulation of the nicotinic cholinergic system may offer a novel approach to manage PD. In fact, there is evidence showing that nicotinic receptor drugs may be useful as neuroprotective agents to prevent Parkinson’s disease progression. Additional preclinical studies also show that nicotinic receptor drugs may be beneficial for the treatment of L-dopa induced dyskinesias. Here, we review preclinical findings supporting the idea that nicotinic receptors are valuable therapeutic targets for PD.
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