The MPTP model: versatile contributions to the treatment of idiopathic Parkinson's disease.

In human and subhuman primates, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) produces irreversible clinical, biochemical and neuropathological alterations highly reminiscent of those observed in Parkinson's disease. The MPTP model has provided the best available tool to date for the assessment of efficacy and side-effects of symptomatic treatments of Parkinson's disease. In addition, the mechanism of action of MPTP has offered a basis for the development of novel therapeutic strategies aimed at the prevention of Parkinson's disease.