Brain monoamine oxidase and aging: a review.

The present state of research on the age-related dynamics of brain monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity and its role in the development of age pathology is described. Special attention is given to the role of MAO in the pathogenesis of parkinsonism and to the mechanisms of its interaction with 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), a possible etiological factor of parkinsonism development in aging. The mechanisms of action of the selective MAO-B inhibitor, deprenyl, and their peculiarities in old age are analyzed. This study provides evidence pointing to a need for the use of deprenyl in geriatric practice as an effective drug for parkinsonism treatment and as a potent geroprotector.