Dopamine_Lecture_Flashcards
Describe the major dopaminergic pathways and their overall physiological function
The major dopaminergic pathways include the Nigrostriatal, Mesolimbic, Mesocortical, and Tuberoinfundibular pathways. Nigrostriatal pathway is involved in motor control, Mesolimbic and Mesocortical pathways handle motivation, reward, and cognitive control, and Tuberoinfundibular pathway regulates hormone secretion, specifically prolactin.
Describe the dopamine hypothesis for schizophrenia
The dopamine hypothesis suggests schizophrenia is associated with dysregulated dopamine activity: subcortical excess leads to positive symptoms, while cortical deficits contribute to negative symptoms and cognitive deficits.
Describe the principal mechanisms of action and most important side effects for antipsychotics
Antipsychotics primarily act as D2 receptor antagonists to mitigate symptoms of schizophrenia. Side effects can include extrapyramidal symptoms such as dystonia, Parkinson-like symptoms, and tardive dyskinesia, as well as increased prolactin levels, weight gain, and extended QT intervals due to hERG channel binding.
Describe the principal mechanisms of action for L-DOPA, dopamine agonists, COMT inhibitors and MAO inhibitors used for treatment of parkinsonism
L-DOPA serves as a dopamine precursor, dopamine agonists directly stimulate dopamine receptors, and COMT and MAO inhibitors prevent dopamine breakdown, enhancing its availability. This helps manage symptoms of Parkinson’s disease by compensating for lost dopaminergic neurons.
Describe the principal mechanisms of action as well as use and abuse of drugs targeting the dopamine transporter (DAT)
Drugs targeting DAT such as Methylphenidate and Amphetamines increase dopamine by inhibiting its reuptake. These are used therapeutically for ADHD but have high abuse potential.
