Enhanced GDNF expression in dopaminergic cells of monkeys grafted with carotid body cell aggregates

► Striatal carotid body grafts improve parkinsonism in animal models and in patients. ► GDNF contained in carotid body cells can be transported to nigral neurons. ► One year after graft, MPTP monkeys show motor recovery and increased 18F-DOPA uptake. ► The number of TH-GDNF immunoreactive nigral neurons is also increased. ► Carotid body graft might exert neuroprotective effect on spared dopaminergic neurons.