General Information
Mouse: CB57BL/6J
Expression of the human C-terminal-truncated (1-130) mutant A53T alpha-synuclein under the control of the rat tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) promoter.
Endogenous mouse alpha synuclein: Yes
Corresponding human genotype: The A53T mutation causes an autonomous dominant form of the disease. Truncated alpha-synuclein is enriched in human Lewy body extracts
Transgene insertion: not specified
References: Wakamatsu 2008a; Wakamatsu 2008b
Transgene expression
- 6 weeks – 52 weeks: transgene expression is observed in the midbrain at reduced levels (30-60%) compared to those of endogenous alpha-synuclein. Alpha-synuclein protein is observed in the soma and nuclei of neurons.
Neurodegeneration
- 8, 26 and 52 weeks: significant loss (20-45%) of TH-positive neurons is observed in the SN. This loss is observed at 8 weeks and remains stable for up to 52 weeks. A 50% reduction of TH is observed in the striatum at 8 and 52 weeks of age.
Dopamine Homeostasis
- 8 and 52 weeks: Both dopamine and homovanillic acid levels are significantly reduced in the striatum
Inclusions
- Not reported
Motor Behaviours
- 8 and 52 weeks: reduction in spontaneous locomotor activity.
- 8 and 52 weeks: no deficits are observed in the rotarod, pole, traction or catalepsy tests.
Response to L-DOPA treatment
- 8 and 52 weeks: Treatment with L-DOPA or dopamine receptor agonists (quinpirole, talipexole, pergolide) induce recovery of spontaneous locomotor activity
Non motor Behaviours
- Not reported
Electrophysiology
- Not reported
Neuroinflammation
- Not reported