Dopamine Receptor Phosphorylation Assays

Dopamine is the predominant catecholamine transmitter in the central nervous system that controls locomotor activity, motivation, positive reinforcement and hormonal regulation by interacting with a family of five G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) designated D1-D5. Based on structural and functional differences dopamine receptors were divided into the D1-like and D2-like subfamilies. D1-like receptors include D1 and D5, which stimulate cAMP production by coupling to stimulatory G proteins. The D2-like receptors include D2, D3 and D4, which inhibit cAMP production by coupling to inhibitory G proteins. The D2 receptor is a pharmacological target for drugs widely used to treat symptoms for disorders associated with dopaminergic dysfunctions, including Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia.