dopamine and glutamate

Question 1

roles of dopamine receptors

Answer 1

D1- plays a role in memory, learning and growth of neuron, found in PFC and striatum and sends messages between nerve cells
D2- plays a role in locomotion, sleep, attention. Responsible for synthesis, release and reuptake of dopamine.
D3- plays a role in impulse control, cognition and attention and is highly expressed in the limbic system.
D4- plays a role in impulse control, attention and sleep and are important in signaling for survival of human dopamine neurons.

Question 2

mesolimbic pathway

Answer 2

• projects from the ventral tegmental area to nucleus accumbens.
• hyperactivity of dopamine in this pathway shows positive psychotic symptoms, can mediate aggression
• antagonizing d2 receptors in pathway treat psychosis symptoms.
• pathway is the site of pleasure , so blocking D2 receptors reduces effect of pleasure.