[Correspondence] MPTP-induced parkinsonism: an historical case series

In 1982, seven young adults developed severe and irreversible parkinsonism shortly after they injected themselves with a new synthetic heroin.1 Sample analyses revealed that this synthetic heroin consisted of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP),2 a potent neurotoxin targeting neurons within the substantia nigra.3

Source: Lancet Neurology - March 14, 2018 Category: Neurology Authors: Jorik Nonnekes, Bart Post, James W Tetrud, J William Langston, Bastiaan R Bloem Tags: Correspondence Source Type: research