In the 1980s, it was determined that a severe form of this disease affecting young opioid users was caused by the accidental self-administration of MPTP. For 10 points each:
[10e] Name this neurodegenerative disease often described as a “shaking palsy” since it is characterized by tremors and muscle rigidity.
ANSWER: Parkinson’s disease [or PD; accept Parkinsonism]
[10m] Once in the body, MPTP converts to MPP-plus, a toxin that inhibits dopaminergic neurons found in this part of the basal ganglia. Like the locus coeruleus, this structure is a major reservoir for neuromelanin.
ANSWER: substantia nigra [accept pars compacta; accept pars reticulata]
[10h] MPTP is converted to the toxic MPP-plus by a “B” form of one of these enzymes. Brunner syndrome is caused by a mutation in an “A” form of one of these enzymes responsible for metabolizing serotonin.
ANSWER: MAOs [or monoamine oxidases; accept MAO-A or monoamine oxidase A; accept MAO-B or monoamine oxidase B; prompt on oxidases]
<Kane Nguyen, Biology>