It is a motor disorder caused by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the black substance of the brain. (sciencedaily.com)
We also observe a significant loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta 60 days after infection. (pnas.org)
Localized expression of Beta2 - containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in dopaminergic neurons in mice supports locomotor activating, but not rewarding effects of nicotine Yann Mineur, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut USA (ibangs.org)