Dopamine transporter

Dopamine transporter (also known as DAT) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SLC6A3 gene. DAT is a membrane-spanning protein that pumps the neurotransmitter dopamine out of the synapse back into cytosol, from which other transporters sequester the dopamine and norepinephrine into vesicles for storage and later release. Dopamine reuptake via DAT provides the primary mechanism through which dopamine is cleared from synapses, although there may be an exception in the prefrontal cortex, where evidence points to a possibly larger role of the norepinephrine transporter.

Function

The dopamine transporter is responsible for the reaccumulation of dopamine after it has been released. Reuptake of dopamine via DAT provides the primary mechanism through which dopamine is cleared from synapses. This is particularly important in regulating the amount of dopamine in the brain.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the dopamine transporter have been implicated in a number of disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, clinical depression, and Parkinson's disease. Additionally, drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines inhibit dopamine reuptake by blocking DAT.

Pharmacology

Many drugs, such as cocaine and amphetamines, inhibit dopamine reuptake via DAT by binding to and blocking the transporter's function. DAT can also be inhibited by other substances, including certain therapeutic agents used in the treatment of mental disorders.

See also

• Dopamine
• Dopamine receptor
• Dopamine agonist
• Dopamine antagonist
• Dopamine reuptake inhibitor

References

Dopamine transporter Resources
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