Regulation of signalling pathways to the nucleus by dopaminergic receptors.

Dopamine regulates postsynaptic gene expression in the central nervous system. The pattern of gene expression is different from chronic vs acute stimulation of dopaminergic receptors. Signalling to the nucleus through dopamine receptors involves different second messenger systems, and each receptor subtype regulates multiple effectors. Long term adaptive changes in neuronal function following administration of dopaminergic drugs such as antipsychotic agent or drugs of abuse is one such example of molecular plasticity triggered by dopaminergic receptors. Role of dopaminergic receptors in the control of transcriptional events and immediate early gene regulation are reviewed.