Lacking P2X7-receptors protects substantia nigra dopaminergic neurons and hippocampal-related cognitive performance from the deleterious effects of high-fat diet exposure in adult male mice.

We report for the first time that HFD induces damage in dopaminergic neurons of the Substantia Nigra and a Hippocampus-related worse cognitive performance, both attenuated in the absence of P2X7R. The involved mechanisms might differ in the two brain areas, with a predominant role of inflammation in the Substantia Nigra and a metabolic derangement in the Hippocampus.