From Man to Mouse

Parkinson disease (PD) is the third most common neurodegenerative disorder affecting humans. Although it is clear that the etiology of a small number of PD cases is strictly genetic (either dominant or recessive) or purely environmental factors (e.g., pesticides, drug use, viruses, heavy metal exposure), it is likely that most cases arise from a combination of the two risk factors. For this reason, the generation and study of animal models where these interactions can be studied can provide important information regarding the pathophysiology of PD. In this chapter, we examine the mechanisms underlying xenobiotic-induced Parkinsonism using 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine as the model agent. We also examine other environmental agents that have been shown to induce Parkinsonism, including paraquat, lippopolysaccharide, and the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus.