Dopamine

Definition

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays several important roles in the brain and body, including the regulation of mood, reward, and motor control. It is critically involved in functions such as motivation, arousal, and executive functioning.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dopamine is synthesized from the amino acid tyrosine, which can be obtained through diet.
2. Adequate levels of dopamine are essential for motor function; deficiencies are linked to neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease.
3. Dopamine plays a key role in the brain's reward system, influencing behaviors related to pleasure and addiction.
4. Nutritional factors such as intake of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can impact dopamine levels and overall neurological health.
5. High-fat and high-sugar diets may alter dopamine signaling pathways, potentially affecting mood and cognitive function.

Review Questions

• What dietary sources contribute to the synthesis of dopamine?
• How does dopamine deficiency affect motor control?
• What nutritional factors influence dopamine levels?

Related terms

Serotonin:

A neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, appetite, and digestion.

Parkinson's Disease:

A neurodegenerative disorder characterized by tremors, stiffness, and difficulties with balance and coordination due to low dopamine levels.

Neurotransmitter: Chemical messengers in the brain that transmit signals across synapses between neurons.