Isoquinoline neurotoxins

Various 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyrine (MPTP)-like isoquinoline s (IQs) were found in the brain or cerebrospinal fluid in Parkinson's disea se (PD). Among these IQs, tetrahydroisoquinoline (TIQ), 1-benzyl-TIQ, 2[N]- methyl-5,6-dihydroxy-TIQ (N-methyl-norsalsolinol) and R-1,2[N]-dimethyl-5,6 -dihydroxy-TIQ [(R)-N-methyl-salsolinol] have been extensively studied. The properties of IQs as neurotoxins are similar to those of MPTP. Further stu dies are needed to elucidate the relationship between IQ neurotoxins and PD .