Striatal transplantation in a rodent model of multiple system atrophy: Effects on L-Dopa response

Progressive degeneration of striatal projection neurons is thought to account for the loss of L‐Dopa response observed in the majority of patients with the parkinsonian variant of multiple system atrophy (MSA‐P). Here we have investigated the effects of E14 embryonic striatal allografts on dopaminergic responsiveness in the unilateral double‐lesion rat model of MSA‐P by using tests of complex motor behavior. Both sham and graft animals showed an increase in apomorphine‐induced rotations as well as an improvement in cylinder test performance following surgical intervention. In contrast, L‐Dopa responsiveness of stepping behavior was improved only in grafted animals. The restoration of apomorphine‐induced rotation correlated with the P‐zone volume of grafts. Our findings indicate that transplantation of embryonic striatal grafts might, at least to some extent, restore responsiveness to L‐Dopa in tasks of complex motor behavior. Therefore, striatal transplantation should be further defined preclinically as a possible therapeutic option for patients with MSA‐P and a failing L‐Dopa response. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.