Abstract

Employing fluorescent retrograde double/triple labeling techniques, we found that a substantial population of substantia nigra pars reticulata cells send divergent axon collaterals to both the ipsilateral striatum and bilateral superior colliculi in the rat. These multi-collateralized neurons were localized predominantly in the ventrolateral portion of the substantia nigra pars reticulata at its rostral level. Furthermore, tyrosine hydroxylase immunofluorescence histochemistry combined with fluorescent retrograde tracing techniques showed that the vast majority (more than 85%) of such specifically branched cells are dopaminergic. This novel nigral cell population seems to be in a strategic position to evoke dopamine-mediated motor impairments (i.e. abnormal saccadic eye movements in Parkinsonism) and/or behavioral syndromes (i.e. compulsive turning behavior) through the GABA-containing nigrotectal pathway.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.