title: The structure and function of the dopamine transporter and its role in CNS diseases.
abstract: In this chapter, we explore the basic science of the dopamine transporter (DAT), an integral component of a system that regulates dopamine homeostasis. Dopamine is a key neurotransmitter for several brain functions including locomotor control and reward systems. The transporter structure, function, mechanism of action, localization, and distribution, in addition to gene regulation, are discussed. Over many years, a wealth of information concerning the DAT has been accrued and has led to increased interest in the role of the DAT in a plethora of central nervous system diseases. These DAT characteristics are explored in relation to a range of neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases, with a particular focus on the genetics of the DAT. In addition, we discuss the pharmacology of the DAT and how this relates to disease and addiction.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, United Kingdom. Electronic address: p.c.mchugh@hud.ac.uk.
authors.forename: Patrick C
authors.initials: PC
authors.lastname: McHugh
authors.affiliation: Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: David A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Buckley
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002493:Central Nervous System Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000378:metabolism*; D004298:Dopamine / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000494:pharmacology; D050483:Dopamine Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins / Q000378:metabolism*; D006706:Homeostasis / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D050483:Dopamine Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins; D004298:Dopamine
keywords: ADHD; Addiction; Borderline; Dopamine; Genetics; Neurotransmitter; Parkinson’s; Polymorphism; Transporter; VNTR