DOPAMINE RECEPTOR Meaning and
Definition
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Dopamine receptor refers to a class of proteins found on the surface of nerve cells in the brain that facilitate the transmission of signals mediated by the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine is a crucial chemical messenger in the brain involved in various functions, including the regulation of movement, reward and pleasure, cognition, mood, motivation, and learning.
Dopamine receptors are classified into two major types, known as D1-like and D2-like receptors, based on their molecular structure and signaling mechanisms. D1-like receptors include D1 and D5 subtypes, while D2-like receptors encompass D2, D3, and D4 subtypes. These receptors are further categorized into subgroups based on their specific functions and distribution within different regions of the brain.
Upon activation by dopamine, these receptors initiate a cascade of intracellular signaling events that ultimately influence neuronal activity. D1-like receptors typically activate a protein called cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and stimulate the cellular processes associated with increased excitement or arousal. Conversely, D2-like receptors inhibit cAMP and mediate actions related to decreased neuronal activity and inhibitory responses.
Dopamine receptors have profound implications in numerous neurological and psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, addiction, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Several drugs used in the treatment of these conditions target dopamine receptors to modulate their activity and restore the normal balance of dopamine signaling in the brain. Thus, understanding the complex workings of dopamine receptors is vital for developing therapeutic interventions and advancing our comprehension of brain functions related to behavior, cognition, and mental health.
Common Misspellings for DOPAMINE RECEPTOR
- sopamine receptor
- xopamine receptor
- copamine receptor
- fopamine receptor
- ropamine receptor
- eopamine receptor
- dipamine receptor
- dkpamine receptor
- dlpamine receptor
- dppamine receptor
- d0pamine receptor
- d9pamine receptor
- dooamine receptor
- dolamine receptor
- do-amine receptor
- do0amine receptor
- dopzmine receptor
- dopsmine receptor
- dopwmine receptor
- dopqmine receptor
Etymology of DOPAMINE RECEPTOR
The etymology of the word "dopamine receptor" can be broken down as follows:
1. Dopamine: The term "dopamine" specifically refers to a neurotransmitter or chemical messenger in the brain that plays a crucial role in various brain functions such as reward, motivation, and pleasure. The word "dopamine" was coined by Swedish pharmacologist Arvid Carlsson in 1953, derived from the combination of the chemical compounds it is composed of, which are "dopa" and "amine". "Dopa" refers to dihydroxyphenylalanine, an amino acid from which dopamine is synthesized, and "amine" refers to the chemical group found in the structure of dopamine.
2. Receptor: The term "receptor" comes from the Latin word "receptus", which means "to receive" or "to take".
