Gene DRD3
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Also known as
D3DR, ETM1, FET1Overview
DRD3 (dopamine receptor D3) is a gene that codes for the dopamine receptor D3 (DRD3) protein. Like the DRD2 receptor, the DRD3 receptor is a G protein-coupled receptor that plays a role in the regulation of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in many important brain functions such as mood, motivation, and movement. However, DRD3 is less widely distributed than DRD2 and it is primarily expressed in the limbic system, which is involved in emotion, motivation, and learning.
Variations in the DRD3 gene have been associated with a number of conditions, including addiction, schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, and some other psychiatric disorders. Some studies suggest that DRD3 gene variants may influence the susceptibility to certain psychiatric disorders and the response to certain medications and therapies.
DRD3 is also a target for some drugs such as antipsychotics and anti-addiction drugs, which modulate the activity of this receptor. It has been also suggested that DRD3 may have a role in the regulation of impulsivity, compulsivity, and addiction-related behavior.