Because of its relative selectivity for dopamine neurons, the neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) is frequently used to induce parkinsonism in primates. MPTP can be used by systemic (s.c., i.m., or i.v.) injections, or through intracarotid injections. The procedures described here apply to the use of systemic injections of the compound.
MPTP use poses health risks for the personnel administering the agent. Accidental MPTP exposure can produce parkinsonism in humans. MPTP may enter the body via absorption through the skin or eyes, injection, inhalation of vapors or powders, or by ingestion. Many of the points made below are in place to address these safety concerns.
An essential part of the biocontainment effort is focused on quarantine the animals during the MPTP exposure. To this end, they are placed into a dedicated room prior to the injections and remain in this room for a 72 hour period following the injections. During this time all of their excreta are collected and disposed of in dedicated biohazardous waste containers for later incineration. The relevant animal housing and husbandry details are mentioned in sections 3.4-3.6
Personnel working with MPTP need to be fully informed of the potential hazards before beginning to work with the chemical. Personnel who administer MPTP may have to undergo specialized training provided by occupational health personnel.
The use of full-body personal protective equipment (see below) is essential. This includes the use of a well-maintained half-mask or full-face respirator with appropriate filter cartridges (at Emory University, a 3M™ Multi Gas/Vapor Cartridge/Filter 60926, P100 is used for this purpose). Personnel using respirators undergo annual health assessments to assess their fitness for using the respirator.
Most institutions will have a Chemical Safety Board which needs to approve the use of this agent.
Personnel has access to doses of selegiline (5 mg tablets) to use in cases in which accidental exposure to MPTP has occurred. Personnel receives training on when and how to use this agent.
National Institutes of Health, Office of Research Services. “Procedures for Working with MPTP or MPTP-treated Animals.” Retrieved from: https://www.ors.od.nih.gov/sr/dohs/Documents/Procedures_for_Working_with_MPTP_or_MPTP_Treated_Animals.pdf.
Przedborski S, Jackson-Lewis V, Naini AB, Jakowec M, Petzinger G, Miller R, Akram M. The parkinsonian toxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP): a technical review of its utility and safety. J Neurochem. 2001 Mar;76(5):1265-74.