dopamine |
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A small molecule neurotransmitter found in the central nervous system. The major dopamine-containing area of the brain is the substantia nigra, which plays an essential role in the control of body movements. Dopamine is synthesised in neurons in the substantia nigra from L-DOPA (levodopa), which can be used as a treatment for Parkinson's disease, but must be given with a DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor to prevent its metabolism in the periphery before it can produce its therapeutic effects. A deficit of dopamine has been implicated in Parkinson's disease, while an excess of dopamine is linked to schizophrenia. Dopaminergic disturbances may be related to the depressive symptom anhedonia - the inability to derive pleasure from situations that usually induce pleasure. |
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