Suppression of hydroxyl radical formation and protection of nigral neurons by l-deprenyl (selegiline).

The present study clearly demonstrated that l-deprenyl confers a substantial protective effect against MPP+ in the substantia nigra zona compacta in vivo. 32.39. The protection provided by l-deprenyl may not depend on its inhibition of type B monoamine oxidase. A unique antioxidant property of l-deprenyl by suppression of cycotoxic. OH formation and associated oxidative damage induced by MPP+ in the A9 melanized nigral neurons may contribute to the protection against MPP+ toxicity in the nigrostriatal system. The likelihood that l-deprenyl may confer neuroprotection against MPP+ toxicity through antioxidant effect is further strongly supported by our recent data that U-78517F (2-methlaminochromans) a potent inhibitor of ironcatalyzed lipid peroxidation, and DMSO an effective. OH scavenger also protect nigral neurons against MPP(+)-induced severe oxidative injury in the substantia nigra. This putative antioxidant effect of deprenyl may explore another mechanism which may in part contribute to its overt neuroprotection against several toxins, including 6-OHDA, DSP-4, and MPTP, and the possible clinical effects on slowing the neuronal degeneration in early Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disorder and even senescent changes.