Thesis
English
ID: <
http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11794/20073>
Abstract
Experimental studies carried out by our laboratory show that 17β-E has beneficial effects on MPTP. New oestrogenic compounds such as brain nerve agents are further investigated to prevent or control Parkinson’s disease. This research project examines the effects of 17β-E, PPT and DPN on the expression of ERS and their neuroprotective mechanisms and capacity in the MPTP mouse (animal model of the disease). The results demonstrate that ERS are expressed in cortex, Striatum and hippocamp. The results examining Striatum suggest that oestrogenic treatments protect against the loss of dopaminergic neurones. Secondly, an increase in the activity of ERK1 and ERK2 in MPTP mice was observed. Hormonal treatment normalised this effect in the case of ERK1 and the opposite is seen for ERK2. Therefore, these neuroprotective mechanisms involve oestrogenic receptors and protein signalling ERK1/2