Dictionary of Biological Psychology
The different subtypes of DOPAMINE (DA) receptors. Receptors for the neurotransmitter dopamine have several forms, which differ in molecular structure and conformation and in affinities for various dopaminergic drugs. There are two families of DA receptors, the D1 family and the D2 family, named for the two original subtypes characterized.
D1 subtypes include D1 and D5 receptors, which are primarily defined by their ability to activate ADENYLATE CYCLASE via a membrane-bound G PROTEIN linked to the receptor. D2-like subtypes include D2, D3, and D4; these subtypes inhibit adenylate cyclase formation via coupling to an inhibitory G protein. Most DA receptors subtypes are found in abundance in regions where dopamine is found, such as the STRIATUM, NUCLEUS ACCUMBENS, and MIDBRAIN. Compounds that are selective agonists or antagonists for various receptor subtypes are useful in elucidating their functions. It is believed that both subtype families are important in dopaminergic transmission.
See also: antipsychotic; dopamine hypothesis of schizophrenia
ANN E.KELLEY
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