Overexpression of VMAT-2 and DT-diaphorase protects substantia nigra-derived cells against aminochrome neurotoxicity

► VMAT‐2 take up aminochrome. ► Aminochrome uptake mediated by VMAT‐2 is inhibited by lobeline but not reserpine. ► VMAT‐2 and DT‐diaphorase overexpression prevents aminochrome neurotoxicity. ► VMAT‐2 and DT‐diaphorase overexpression prevents increase of autophagosome. ► VMAT‐2 and DT‐diaphorase overexpression prevents mitochondria remodeling.