MPTP produces a mosaic-like pattern of terminal degeneration in the caudate nucleus of dog.

This paper describes the spatial pattern of terminal degeneration in the caudate nucleus and putamen of the dog following an injection of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Marked inhomogeneities in the filed of terminal degeneration were found in the head of the caudate nucleus, which are reminiscent of the fundamental patch/matrix organization of the striatum. Using MPTP as a selective lesioning method, our results provide further evidence that the dopaminergic, nigrostriatal projection has a heterogeneous organization.