Abstract #3394

fMRI reveals plasticity compensating for early dopaminergic loss at corticostriatal synapse

Chiao-Chi Chen¹, Yi-Hua Hsu¹, Nai-Wei Yao¹, and Chen Chang¹

¹Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan

The dopaminergic system possesses striking plasticity compensating for motor aberrations from neuronal loss. Little is known regarding the compensation mechanism during dopaminergic loss, preventing the aberration from being arrested and treated early. Here we present in vivo imaging evidence from functional magnetic resonance imaging showing that, after dopaminergic depletion, the dorsolateral striatum (DOLS) exhibited an early and transient vasodilation cluster in response to specific forepaw stimulation. Activation of DOLS NMDA receptors causes this vasodilation, protects dopaminergic fibers from denervation, and counteracts motor deficits. The findings have clinical implications for early detection and intervention in brain disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.

How to access this content:

For one year after publication, abstracts and videos are only open to registrants of this annual meeting. Registrants should use their existing login information. Non-registrant access can be purchased via the ISMRM E-Library.

After one year, current ISMRM & ISMRT members get free access to both the abstracts and videos. Non-members and non-registrants must purchase access via the ISMRM E-Library.

After two years, the meeting proceedings (abstracts) are opened to the public and require no login information. Videos remain behind password for access by members, registrants and E-Library customers.

Click here for more information on becoming a member.