Protocol for quantification of the nigrostriatal system in non-human primate brain sections

Here we describe the method conducted to estimate (i) number of TH+ neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta by taking advantage of a dedicated algorithm (Aiforia) and (ii) optical density of TH innervation in the putamen nucleus. These two levels of analysis are required to properly estimate the potential damage of the nigrostriatal system in non-human primates, bot at origin (substantia nigra pars compacta) as well as at destination (putamen nucleus).