Michael Salvatore, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Department of Pharmacology & Neuroscience
University of North Texas Health Science Center
“Targeting tyrosine hydroxylase in substantia nigra, not striatum, to prevent locomotor impairment in aging and Parkinson’s disease”
Although the preservation of dopamine neurotransmission in the striatum has been long-presumed to be the experimental and therapeutic goal for preserving or restoring locomotor impairment in both aging and Parkinson’s disease, there is evidence from many studies that challenge this long-held dogma. This seminar will present evidence that protecting and preserving tyrosine hydroxylase expression and function in the substantia nigra, rather than striatum, will be critical for restoring or protecting against loss of motor function. We will show evidence to support this hypothesis from established aging and Parkinson’s disease rodent models. Furthermore, we will show evidence how our hypothesis is supported from non-invasive approaches like exercise and calorie restriction to prevent motor decline. Accordingly, one of our lab’s long-term goals is to encourage our colleagues to include the interrogation of dopamine function in the substantia nigra to further resolve the dire necessity to improve motor function in our aging population, including those with Parkinson’s disease.
Friday, January 12, 2018, 11:00AM-12:00PM, LIB-110
University of North Texas Health Science Center
Fort Worth, Texas