Snca and Bdnf Gene Expression in the VTA and Raphe Nuclei of Midbrain in Chronically Victorious and Defeated Male Mice

Abstract

Background: Alpha-synuclein (a-Syn) is a small neuronal protein that has been found to be expressed throughout the brain. It has been shown that a-Syn regulates the homeostasis of monoamine neurotransmitters and is involved in various degenerative and affective disorders. There is indication that a-Syn may regulate expression of the brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) which plays an important role in the mood disorders.