Posted by scott-d-o on December 16, 2003, at 6:03:34
In reply to Re: D2 and D3 » scott-d-o, posted by DSCH on December 16, 2003, at 0:56:24
> I meant what do these receptors set into action when they are activated naturally by dopamine.
>
> Thanks for the rest.Ah, I apologize for misreading your question but I'm still not sure I completely understand what it is you are asking. I will do my best but I doubt me or anyone else will be able to answer what I think it is asking conclusively. I don't think we as humans are far enough along in our understanding of the human brain to know the exact physiological effects of agonising specific receptors; it is much too complex (dopamine receptors remain particularly elusive). Probably about the only thing I know specifically about D2 receptors is that agonising them helps reduce Parkinson's disease symptoms; at least for a while. Or perhaps you are asking what is the effect of agonising a receptor in general which is simply that it causes transmission of the nerve impulse to the cell housing the receptor?
So to answer your question the best I can, I would say the effect of stimulating those receptors is the exact benefits you see people claiming they have received from low-dose amisulpride or other dopaminergic meds. It can increase motivation, lower social inhibitions, lower fatigue, decrease anxiety. Of course, all this assumes there is a problem with dopamine transmission to begin with, otherwise it will probably cause nothing but adverse affects and perhaps euphoria.
scott
poster:scott-d-o
thread:289676
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20031213/msgs/290401.html