Enhanced tumor growth in brain dopamine-depleted mice following 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) treatment.

Brain dopamine influences immune functions and the role of immune functions in tumor growth is well established. Therefore, a study has been carried out to evaluate the correlation, if any, between brain dopamine and tumor growth. MPTP selectively destroys dopaminergic neurons in the brain. In the present study, Ehrlich carcinoma growth was evaluated in MPTP-treated mice. Results showed a correlation between depletion of striatal dopamine and enhanced tumor growth. Since in the present study striatal dopamine depletion in mice was associated with significantly decreased immune responses, the suggested correlation between brain dopamine and tumor growth was possibly mediated by the immune system.