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Current Gene Therapy

Editor-in-Chief

ISSN (Print): 1566-5232
ISSN (Online): 1875-5631

Review Article

Exploring Genetic and Receptor-Based Dopaminergic Strategies for Antidepressant Drug Development

In Press, (this is not the final "Version of Record"). Available online 21 January, 2025
Author(s): Arzoo Pannu* and Ramesh K. Goyal
Published on: 21 January, 2025

DOI: 10.2174/0115665232334693250110175517

Price: $95

Abstract

The dopamine (DA) system is central to mood regulation, motivation, and reward processing, making it a critical focus for understanding Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). While the dopaminergic system's role in MDD pathophysiology has been acknowledged, gaps remain in linking specific receptor subtypes and genetic factors to depression-like phenotypes. This study explores the interplay between dopamine receptor subtypes (D1-D5) and associated genetic variations, particularly focusing on receptor heterodimers and polymorphisms influencing dopamine biosynthesis, signalling, and metabolism. A comprehensive review of molecular mechanisms highlights key findings: alterations in D1-D2 heterodimers contribute to mood dysregulation; D3 receptor downregulation correlates with depressive behaviour; and genetic polymorphisms, including those in tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine transporter (DAT) genes, influence dopamine levels and receptor functions. Emerging data from neuroimaging and animal models confirm the pivotal role of dopamine receptor subtypes in MDD, offering insights into their therapeutic targeting. Here, we show that dopaminergic dysfunction underpins MDD's pathophysiology, with receptor-specific mechanisms presenting novel drug targets. Understanding these pathways facilitates precision medicine approaches, bridging the gap between genetic predisposition and receptor pharmacology, and paving the way for tailored antidepressant strategies with improved efficacy and reduced side effects.

Keywords: Depression, dopamine hypothesis, dopamine receptors, genes, new targets, anti-depressant treatment.


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