The Role of ΔFosB in the Pathogenesis of Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesia: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies

Abstract

Levodopa-induced dyskinesia (LID) represents a significant complication associated with the long-term administration of levodopa (L-DOPA) for the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD). This review examines the critical role of Delta FosB, a transcription factor, in the pathogenesis of LID and explores potential therapeutic interventions. Delta FosB accumulates within the striatum in response to chronic dopaminergic stimulation, thereby driving maladaptive changes that culminate in dyskinesia. Its persistent expression modifies gene transcription, influencing neuronal plasticity and contributing to the sustained presence of dyskinetic movements. This study explains how Delta FosB functions at the molecular level, focusing on its connections with dopamine D1 receptors, the cAMP/PKA signaling pathway, and its regulatory effects on downstream targets such as DARPP-32 and GluA1 AMPA receptor subunits. Additionally, it examines how neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) affects Delta FosB levels and the development of LID. This review also considers the interactions between Delta FosB and other signaling pathways, such as ERK and mTOR, in the context of LID and striatal plasticity. Emerging therapeutic strategies targeting Delta FosB and its associated pathways include pharmacological interventions like ranitidine, 5-hydroxytryptophan, and carnosic acid. Furthermore, this study addresses the role of JunD, another component of the AP-1 transcription factor complex, in the pathogenesis of LID. Understanding the molecular mechanisms by which Delta FosB contributes to LID offers promising avenues for developing novel treatments that could mitigate dyskinesia and improve the quality of life for PD patients undergoing long-term L-DOPA therapy.