The D2 dopamine receptor gene as a determinant of reward deficiency syndrome

K Blum; P J Sheridan; R C Wood; E R Braverman; T J Chen; J G Cull; D E Comings

doi:10.1177/014107689608900711

The D2 dopamine receptor gene as a determinant of reward deficiency syndrome

J R Soc Med. 1996 Jul;89(7):396-400. doi: 10.1177/014107689608900711.

Authors

K Blum¹, P J Sheridan, R C Wood, E R Braverman, T J Chen, J G Cull, D E Comings

Affiliation

¹ Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio 78284, USA.

Abstract

The dopaminergic system, and in particular the dopamine D2 receptor, has been profoundly implicated in reward mechanisms in the brain. Dysfunction of the D2 dopamine receptors leads to aberrant substance seeking behaviour (alcohol, drug, tobacco, and food) and other related behaviours (pathological gambling, Tourette's syndrome, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). We propose that variants of the D2 dopamine receptor gene are important common genetic determinants of the 'reward deficiency syndrome'.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

MeSH terms

Compulsive Behavior / genetics*
Genetic Linkage
Humans
Receptors, Dopamine D2 / genetics*
Risk Factors
Substance-Related Disorders / genetics*
Syndrome

Substances

Receptors, Dopamine D2