Dopamine

Vanderbilt researchers in the lab of Erin Calipari, assistant professor of pharmacology and molecular physiology and biophysics, have demonstrated a role for dopamine signaling in novelty-based learning—a finding that could have major impacts on how neurological diseases are treated. Read More

Vanderbilt University has signed an exclusive worldwide license and research collaboration agreement with Neumora Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering precision medicines for brain diseases through the integration of data science and neuroscience. Read More

Discovery shows that dopamine is not a reward molecule at all, calling for revision of textbook facts regarding the hormone’s role in the brain. Est. reading time: 3.5 mins. Read More

A first-of-its-kind mouse model may help reveal mechanistic underpinnings for the altered behaviors of autism spectrum disorder. Read More

A noninvasive MRI technique may help predict a troubling side effect of common medications for Parkinson’s Disease and improve clinical treatment plans. Read More

Vanderbilt researchers have discovered a possible molecular mechanism of schizophrenia that could lead to new treatments for the disorder. Read More

Newly discovered genetic variations linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) disrupt the function of the dopamine transporter, suggesting that altered dopamine signaling contributes to this common developmental condition, according to a Vanderbilt University-led research team. Read More

Although heteromeric dopamine receptors composed of both D1 and D2 subunits have been proposed to play a role in depression and schizophrenia, recent studies suggest these heteromers do not exist. Read More

The transgenic mouse, into which was inserted a rare human genetic variation in the dopamine transporter, could lead to improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of these all-too-common brain disorders. Read More

What exactly pushed Christopher Columbus to embark on a voyage across the Atlantic, or Edward Jenner to test his theory for an early smallpox vaccine on a child, or Henry Ford to bet that automobiles could replace horses? David Zald, professor of psychology, studies risk-taking and is quoted. Read More

Eating fava beans increases dopamine in blood and urine, but does not stimulate urinary sodium excretion. Read More

The top news stories, Tweets, Facebook posts, photos and videos of the year. Read More

Several Vanderbilt researchers have collaborated with this year's Nobel Chemistry winners. Read More

A rare genetic change adds support to the idea that altered dopamine signaling is a key risk factor for ADHD. Read More

A new brain imaging study that has found an individual’s willingness to work hard to earn money is strongly influenced by the chemistry in three specific areas of the brain. Read More

Vanderbilt University Medical Center investigators have demonstrated that dopamine produced outside the brain – in the kidneys – is important for renal function, blood pressure regulation and life span. Read More

Patients with certain autonomic nervous system disorders have impaired odor identification, which could aid in diagnosis. Read More