Activation of subthalamic alpha 2 noradrenergic receptors induces motor deficits as a consequence of neuronal burst firing

► Activation of α1 adrenoreceptors increases the firing rate of subthalamic neurons. ► Activation of α2 adrenoreceptors results in burst firing of subthalamic neurons. ► Activation of α2, but not α1, adrenoreceptors induces hypolocomotor activity.