Neuroprotection by bromocriptine against 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine-induced neurotoxicity in mice

Mice were treated with 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP; 30 mg/kg i.p. twice, 16 h apart). This resulted in changes in motor performance and toxic insult of nigral neurons as evidenced by dopamine depletion in nucleus caudatus putamen. In vitro and in vivo treatment of MPTP caused the generation of hydroxyl radicals (.OH) as measured by a sensitive salicylate hydroxylation procedure. A dopamine agonist, bromocriptine (10 microM and 10 mg/kg i.p.), blocked .OH formation caused by MPTP in vitro (20 microM) and in vivo (30 mg/kg i.p.). An MPTP-induced increase in the activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase in substantia nigra on the seventh day was reduced by bromocriptine pretreatment. Bromocriptine blocked MPTP-induced behavioral dysfunction as well as glutathione and dopamine depletion, indicating its potent neuroprotective action. This study suggests that bromocriptine stimulates antioxidant mechanisms in the brain and acts as a free radical scavenger in addition to its action at dopamine receptors, thus indicating its strength as a valuable neuroprotectant.