Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Increases Stimulus-Evoked Dopamine Release and Motor Speed in Aged Rhesus Monkeys

• DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.23-05-01974.2003
• Publication Date: 2018-04-04T20:45:28Z
• Authors: Richard Grondin; Wayne A. Cass; Zhiming Zhang; John A. Stanford; Don M. Gash; Greg A. Gerhardt
• Keywords: Putamen; Caudate nucleus

Changes in the functional dynamics of dopamine release and regulation basal ganglia have been posited to contribute age-related slowing motor functions. Here, we report effects glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) on stimulus-evoked speed aged monkeys (21-27 years age; n = 10). Although no changes were observed vehicle controls (n 5), chronic infusions 7.5 microg GDNF per day for 2 months into right lateral ventricle initially increased hand movement up 40% an automated hand-reach task. These maintained at least after replacing with vehicle, another 10% reinstatement treatment 1 month. In addition, upper-limb performance times GDNF-treated animals 5) recorded end study similar those five young adult (8-12 age). The was significantly increased, 130% caudate nucleus putamen 116% both left substantia nigra recipients compared controls. Also, extracellular levels bilaterally 163% animals. data suggest that may be responsible improvements functions support hypothesis dysfunctions characterizing senescence.