Neuronal degeneration in canine narcolepsy.

TitleNeuronal degeneration in canine narcolepsy.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication1999
AuthorsSiegel JM, Nienhuis R, Gulyani S, Ouyang S, Wu MF, Mignot E, Switzer RC, McMurry G, Cornford M
JournalJ Neurosci
Volume19
Issue1
Pagination248-57
Date Published1999 Jan 01
ISSN0270-6474
KeywordsAnimals, Brain Mapping, Dogs, In Situ Nick-End Labeling, Narcolepsy, Nerve Degeneration, Neurons, Silver Staining
Abstract

Narcolepsy is a lifelong illness characterized by persistent sleepiness, hypnagogic hallucinations, and episodes of motor paralysis called cataplexy. We have tested the hypothesis that a transient neurodegenerative process is linked to symptom onset. Using the amino-cupric silver stain on brain sections from canine narcoleptics, we found elevated levels of axonal degeneration in the amygdala, basal forebrain (including the nucleus of the diagonal band, substantia innominata, and preoptic region), entopeduncular nucleus, and medial septal region. Reactive neuronal somata, an indicator of neuronal pathology, were found in the ventral amygdala. Axonal degeneration was maximal at 2-4 months of age. The number of reactive cells was maximal at 1 month of age. These degenerative changes precede or coincide with symptom onset. The forebrain degeneration that we have observed can explain the major symptoms of narcolepsy.

DOI10.1523/JNEUROSCI.19-01-00248.1999
Alternate JournalJ Neurosci
PubMed ID9870955
PubMed Central IDPMC6782381
Grant ListNS14610 / NS / NINDS NIH HHS / United States
NS23724 / NS / NINDS NIH HHS / United States