DOPAMINE-RECEPTORS IN THE BASAL GANGLIA - RELEVANCE TO PARKINSONS-DISEASE

At least five receptors for dopamine (D1-D5) have been recognised from molecular biological studies, and their pharmacological properties an d brain localisations have been determined. The D1 and D2 subtypes are the principal subtypes in brain, and their cellular localisations in the caudate nucleus and putamen have been determined. With recent adva nces in the understanding of basal ganglia neuronal function, these lo calisation data enable insights into the mode of action of drugs used at present and in the future to treat Parkinson's disease.