Abstract
DOPAMINERGIC neuronal pathways arise from mesencephalic nuclei and project axons to the striatum, cortex, limbic system and hypothalamus1,2. Through these pathways dopamine affects many physiological functions, such as the control of coordinated movement and hormone secretion3. Here we have studied the physiological involvement of the dopamine D2 receptors in dopaminergic transmission, using homologous recombination to generate D2-receptor-deficient mice. Absence of D2 receptors leads to animals that are akinetic and bradykinetic in behavioural tests, and which show significantly reduced spontaneous movements. This pheno-type presents analogies with symptoms characteristic of Parkin-son's disease4,5. Our study shows that D2 receptors have a key role in the dopaminergic control of nervous function. These mice have therapeutic potential as a model for investigating and correcting dysfunctions of the dopaminergic system.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 424-428 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Nature |
Volume | 377 |
Issue number | 6548 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1995 Oct 5 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General