Chronic exposure to aluminum reduces tyrosine hydroxylase expression in the substantia nigra and locomotor performance in rats

▶ The present study evaluates by means of immunohistochemistry of tyrosine hydroxylase, the effects of chronic Al exposure in adulthood or since intra-uterine age on the dopaminergic neurons. ▶ Our results show that chronic exposure to Al-contaminated water significantly reduced TH-immunoreactive neurons in the substantia nigra. ▶ The effect of Al is more severe in addicted since the intra-uterine age. ▶ These changes may affect brain levels of DA with consequence on locomotor activity.