In addition, the transgenic mice overexpressing PGC-1α in dopaminergic neurons are resistant against cellular degeneration and dopamine loss induced by the neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), a prodrug to the neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+) causing permanent symptoms of PD [8]. This evidence concerns the gene PPARGC1A and Parkinson disease.