Freed et al. (2001): Dopamine and Parkinson's
Aim
To investigate the effects of dopamine on the behavioral symptoms of Parkinsons
Methods
An experiment with a sample of 40 participants with severe Parkinsons disease
Procedures
Results
PET scans revealed significant growth of dopamine-producing cells of the participants in the experiment group
Also with the experimental group, a reduction of Parkinson's symptoms by 28% was found, but only the younger ones
Conclusion
Transplantation of dopamine-producing neurons in participants with severe symptoms of Parkinson's result in some clinical benefit, but only in young people
Shows the influence of dopamine on behavior
Neurotransmitters, excitatory