6OHDA

6-Hydroxydopamine, often abbreviated as 6OHDA, is a neurotoxin that selectively destroys dopaminergic neurons. It is a chemical compound derived from dopamine and is primarily used in scientific research, particularly in neuroscience, to create animal models of Parkinson's disease. When administered to an animal, 6OHDA is taken up by dopamine transporters in dopaminergic neurons. Once inside these neurons, it is oxidized, leading to the formation of reactive oxygen species and subsequent cell death. This selective neurotoxicity allows researchers to study the effects of dopamine depletion on motor control, behavior, and the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. The most common administration routes in animal models are intracerebral injections, targeting specific dopaminergic pathways such as the nigrostriatal pathway. The severity of the observed effects, including motor deficits and biochemical changes, is dose-dependent and can be modulated by factors such as the site of injection and the species of animal used. While a valuable tool for understanding neuronal degeneration, 6OHDA is a potent toxin and requires careful handling in laboratory settings. Its use is strictly for research purposes and not for any therapeutic applications.