Irreversible incorporation of L-dopa into the C-terminus of α-tubulin inhibits binding of molecular motor KIF5B to microtubules and alters mitochondrial traffic along the axon.

L-dopa is the most effective drug used to date for management of Parkinson's disease symptoms. Unfortunately, long-term administration of L-dopa often results in development of motor disorders, including dyskinesias. Despite extensive research on L-dopa-induced dyskinesia, its pathogenesis remains poorly understood.