Development of the dopaminergic neurons in the rodent brainstem

The loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the ventral midbrain is the principal cause of Parkinson's disease. The search for candidate molecules that promote the genesis and survival capacities of DA neurons is a major area of investigation and hope. A better characterization of the developmental pathways that govern the specification, differentiation, and survival of these neurons will be essential in devising therapies aimed to rescue or replace midbrain DA neurons in Parkinson's patients. In this brief review, we will discuss the major steps in the normal development of midbrain DA neurons. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.