Structure and function of dopamine receptors

Dopamine (DA) is the most abundant catecholamine in the brain. The involvem ent and importance of DA as a neurotransmitter in the regulation of differe nt physiological functions in the central nervous system (CNS) is well know n. Deregulation of the dopaminergic system has been linked with Parkinson's disease, Tourette's syndrome, schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) and generation of pituitary tumours. This review focuses o n the pharmacological and biochemical features shared by the dopamine recep tors. We address their coupling to secondary messenger pathways and their p hysiological function based upon studies using pharmacological tools, speci fic brain lesions and, more recently, genetically modified animal models. ( C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.