Popis: |
The importance of dopaminergic transmission for normal behaviour has been evident since the initial characterization of the organization and functioning of the dopamine (DA) pathways, as well as the subsequent discovery and mapping of the DA receptor systems, comprising the D1-like receptors (i.e. D1, D4 and D5 receptor subtypes) and the D2/3-like receptors. The search for functional correlates of DA function has been given great impetus by its undoubted involvement in Parkinson’s disease, in the mediation of reinforcing effects of drugs of abuse such as the amphetamine-like psychomotor stimulants and in the anti-psychotic effects of neuroleptic drugs. The purpose of this chapter is to build upon the syntheses provided by several previous reviews and to reach conclusions about the nature of the contribution of DA neurotransmission to behaviour, with particular emphasis on its possible role in cognition. |