Dopaminergic Neuron (DA Neuron)

Dopaminergic neurons are specialized nerve cells that synthesize and release dopamine, a key neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. These neurons are relatively few in number—about 400,000 in the human brain—but have widespread influence due to their extensive axonal projections. Their cell bodies are primarily located in specific midbrain regions: the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc), ventral tegmental area (VTA), and retrorubral field. Dopaminergic neurons regulate voluntary movement, motivation, reward associations, habit learning, cognitive functions, and mood regulation. Loss or dysfunction of these neurons is central to several neurological diseases, including Parkinson’s Disease and neuropsychiatric disorders.

Other names

Dopamine neuronDopamine-releasing neuronSubstantia nigra neuronVentral tegmental area neuron