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Dopamine Receptors

Meaning

Dopamine receptors are a family of G protein-coupled receptors located primarily in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues that mediate the physiological effects of the neurotransmitter dopamine. These receptors are integral to regulating a wide array of functions, including motor control, motivation, reward, cognition, and endocrine signaling. Pharmacologically, they are divided into five subtypes, D1 through D5, which are grouped into D1-like (D1 and D5) and D2-like (D2, D3, and D4) families based on their structure and signaling pathways. Their proper function is vital for neurological and psychological health.