Changes in function and ultrastructure of striatal dopaminergic terminals that regenerate following partial lesions of the SNpc

Abstract

Following partial substantia nigra lesions, remaining dopaminergic neurones sprout, returning terminal density in the dorsal striatum to normal by 16 weeks. This suggests regeneration and maintenance of terminal density is regulated to release appropriate levels of dopamine. This study examined the structure and function of these reinnervated terminals, defining characteristics of dopamine uptake and release, density and affinity of the dopamine transporter (DAT) and ultrastructural morphology of dopamine terminals in the reinnervated dorsal striatum. Finally, rotational behaviour of animals in response to amphetamine was examined 4 and 16 weeks after substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) le..