Simvastatin Prevents Neurodegeneration in the MPTP Mouse Model of Parkinson’s Disease via Inhibition of A1 Reactive Astrocytes

Abstract

Emerging evidence indicates that A1 reactive astrocytes play crucial roles in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Thus, development of agents that could inhibit the formation of A1 reactive astrocytes could be used to treat PD. Simvastatin has been touted as a potential neuroprotective agent for neurologic disorders such as PD, but the specific underlying mechanism remains unclear. The 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) mouse model of PD and primary astrocytes/neurons were prepared to investigate the effects of simvastatin on PD and its underlying mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. We show that simvastatin protects against the loss of dopamine neurons and behavioral deficits in the MPTP mouse model of PD. We also found that simvastatin suppressed the expression of A1 astrocytic specific markers in vivo and in vitro. In addition, simvastatin alleviated neuron death induced by A1 astrocytes. Our findings reveal that simvastatin is neuroprotective via the prevention of conversion of astrocytes to an A1 neurotoxic phenotype. In light of simvastatin favorable properties, it should be evaluated in the treatment of PD and related neurologic disorders characterized by A1 reactive astrocytes.