GLUCOCORTICOIDS INHIBITS NEUROINFLAMMATION AND REDUCE DEGENERATION OF DOPAMINERGIC NEURONES WITH VIRAL VECTOR INDUCED OVEREXPRESSION OF ALPHA-SYNUCLEIN
The introduction of viral vector transducing alpha-synuclein gene into the neurons of the rats substantia nigra causes hyperproduction of this protein, the loss of dopaminergic neurons and microglial activation. Weekly intraperitoneal administration within two months of corticosterone significantly reduces the intensity of microglial activation and increases the number of surviving neurons. These results suggest an important role of neuroinflammation in the Parkinson-like neurodegeneration and protective role of anti-inflammatory drugs.