DSP-4

DSP-4 or N-(2-chloroethyl)-N-ethyl-2-bromobenzylamine is a neurotoxin that is used in scientific research to selectively destroy norepinephrine neurons in the brain. It is primarily used in animal studies to simulate the effects of neurological diseases and to study the role of norepinephrine in the brain.

Chemistry

DSP-4 is a halogenated alkylamine compound. It is a derivative of benzylamine, with a bromine atom on the benzene ring and a chloroethyl group attached to the nitrogen atom. The compound is a white crystalline solid at room temperature.

Mechanism of Action

DSP-4 works by selectively destroying norepinephrine neurons in the brain. It does this by entering the neurons and causing oxidative stress, which leads to cell death. The exact mechanism of how DSP-4 causes oxidative stress is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve the production of reactive oxygen species.

Uses in Research

DSP-4 is primarily used in animal studies to simulate the effects of neurological diseases such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. By destroying norepinephrine neurons, researchers can study the effects of these diseases on the brain and test potential treatments.

In addition to its use in disease models, DSP-4 is also used to study the role of norepinephrine in the brain. For example, it has been used to investigate the role of norepinephrine in sleep, memory, and mood.

Safety

As a neurotoxin, DSP-4 is potentially harmful if ingested or inhaled. It can cause irritation to the skin and eyes, and prolonged exposure can lead to neurological damage. Therefore, it should be handled with care in a laboratory setting.

See Also

• Neurotoxin
• Norepinephrine
• Parkinson's disease
• Alzheimer's disease

DSP-4 Resources
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