Temporal dynamics of neurovascular unit changes following blood-brain barrier opening in the putamen of non-human primates.

Low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) combined with intravenously circulating microbubbles has recently emerged as a novel approach for increasing delivery through the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This technique safely and transiently enables therapeutic agents to overcome the BBB, which typically poses a significant obstacle for treatment of brain disorders. However, the full impact of LIFU on the entire neurovascular unit (NVU), as well as the mechanisms and factors involved in restoring BBB integrity still require further elucidation.

Oral subchronic exposure to the mycotoxin ochratoxin A induces key pathological features of Parkinson's disease in mice six months after the end of the treatment.

Some epidemiological studies with different levels of evidence have pointed to a higher risk of Parkinson's disease (PD) after exposure to environmental toxicants. A practically unexplored potential etiological factor is a group of naturally-occurring fungal secondary metabolites called mycotoxins. The mycotoxin ochratoxin A (OTA) has been reported to be neurotoxic in mice.

Compensatory mechanisms in Parkinson's disease: Circuits adaptations and role in disease modification.

The motor features of Parkinson's disease (PD) are well known to manifest only when striatal dopaminergic deficit reaches 60-70%. Thus, PD has a long pre-symptomatic and pre-motor evolution during which compensatory mechanisms take place to delay the clinical onset of disabling manifestations. Classic compensatory mechanisms have been attributed to changes and adjustments in the nigro-striatal system, such as increased neuronal activity in the substantia nigra pars compacta and enhanced dopamine synthesis and release in the striatum.