Dopamine transporter (DAT) neurons are dopaminergic neurons that express the dopamine transporter protein, a critical membrane receptor responsible for reuptake of dopamine from the synaptic cleft. These neurons are essential for dopaminergic neurotransmission and are key targets in Parkinson's disease and addiction research[1].
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Neurotransmitter Transporters |
| Location | Substantia nigra pars compacta, Ventral tegmental area |
| Cell Types | Dopaminergic A9 (SNc), A10 (VTA) |
| Primary Neurotransmitter | Dopamine |
| Key Markers | DAT (SLC6A3), TH, AADC |
The dopamine transporter (DAT, encoded by SLC6A3) is a member of the Na+/Cl- dependent neurotransmitter transporter family. It terminates dopaminergic signaling by reuptaking dopamine into the presynaptic terminal[2].
The study of Dopamine Transporter Neurons has evolved significantly over the past decades. Research in this area has revealed important insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration and continues to drive therapeutic development.
Historical context and key discoveries in this field have shaped our current understanding and will continue to guide future research directions.
Gainetdinov RR, Caron MG. Genetics of childhood disorders: XXIV. ADHD, part 1: evaluating dopamine transporter gene mutations. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2003;42(3):260-263. PMID:12595783 ↩︎
Torres GE, Gainetdinov RR, Caron MGamine transporters:. Plasma membrane mono structure, regulation and function. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2003;4(1):13-25. PMID:12511858 ↩︎