DRD1

What is DRD1 protein?

DRD1 gene (dopamine receptor D1) is a protein coding gene which situated on the long arm of chromosome 5 at locus 5q35. This gene encodes the D1 subtype of the dopamine receptor. The D1 subtype is the most abundant dopamine receptor in the central nervous system. This G-protein coupled receptor stimulates adenylyl cyclase and activates cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinases. D1 receptors regulate neuronal growth and development, mediate some behavioral responses, and modulate dopamine receptor D2-mediated events. The DRD1 protein is consisted of 446 amino acids and DRD1 molecular weight is approximately 49.3 kDa.

What is the function of DRD1 protein?

The DRD1 protein is a G-protein-coupled receptor that is mainly distributed in the cerebral cortex and plays a crucial role in the regulation of emotional, cognitive and motor functions. The function of DRD1 is closely associated with a variety of neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and drug addiction. The activation of DRD1 can promote neuronal excitability and influence intracellular cAMP level through the signal transduction pathway mediated by G protein, thereby regulating the physiological activity of neurons.

Fig1. Dopamine pathway in the pre-synaptic dopaminergic neuron: key enzymes, proteins and associated diseases. (Kimberley M Reid, 2023)

DRD1 Related Signaling Pathway

DRD1 is mainly coupled with the activated G protein Gs to stimulate the production of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), the downstream second messenger, thereby activating PKA (protein kinase A) and regulating neuronal excitability. Activation of DRD1 can indirectly affect the opening and closing of ion channels through G proteins, thereby altering the potential of cell membranes and neuronal activity. The activation of DRD1 can activate the phosphatidylinositol signaling pathway through G protein, resulting in an increase in intracellular calcium ion levels and affecting neuronal signaling. DRD1 may also influence neuroinflammation and immune cell function by modulating neuro-immune interactions. DRD1 may interact with other types of dopamine receptors or neurotransmitter receptors to participate in complex neural signaling networks.

DRD1 Related Diseases

Decreased DRD1 signaling is associated with motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease, which is often associated with loss of dopaminergic neurons. Abnormal functioning of DRD1 is thought to be associated with both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Alterations in dopamine signaling, specifically changes in DRD1, have been linked to emotional and cognitive symptoms of depression. While ADHD is primarily associated with dopamine transporters and DRD2, DRD1 may also play a role in regulating attention and behavior. The dopamine system, including DRD1, is involved in the neurobiological mechanisms of reward and addictive behavior. DRD1 may be involved in the regulation of neuro-immune interactions and affect the occurrence of neuroinflammation.

Bioapplications of DRD1

DRD1 is a popular drug target for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and other neuropsychiatric disorders. Develop selective and specific DRD1 agonists or antagonists that can be used to regulate dopamine signaling and improve related symptoms. Activation of DRD1 may have a protective effect on neurons, preventing apoptosis, and therefore has potential applications in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. DRD1 plays an important role in cognitive function and mood regulation, and its activation or suppression may help treat depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. Due to the role of DRD1 in the neurobiological mechanisms of reward and addictive behavior, drugs targeting DRD1 may be useful in the treatment of drug addiction and other addictive disorders.