Dynamics of expression of the mRNA for cytokines and inducible nitric synthase in a murine model of the Parkinson’s disease

The inflammatory reaction and oxidative stress has been linked with PD. Proinflammatory cytokines promote neurodegeneration or neuroprotection in different animal models. In addition, these cytokines have been reported to increase iNOS expression. With the RT-PCR method we evaluated mRNA levels for IL1Beta, IL6, TNF, IFNy, IL-10 and iNOS in the striatum of C57BL/6 mice after MPTP intoxication. The IL1Beta mRNA expression rapidly increased and peaked at 6 h. The first increase of mRNA for TNFalfa and IFNy was noticed at 6-24 h and the second at the 7 th day after MPTP intoxication. Two peaks of IL10 mRNA were seen, immediately (6 h) and at the 3 rd day post MPTP injection. The peak of mRNA level for IL6 was observed at the 7 th day. Expression of mRNA for iNOS peaked at 24h, started decreasing on the 3 rd day, but was still present till the 14 th day. Those findings suggest that cytokine network and iNOS may be involved in the development of immune changes accompanying degeneration of the nigrostriatal system.