D"2R striatopallidal neurons inhibit both locomotor and drug reward processes

Abstract

The specific functions of dopamine D"2 receptor-positive (D"2R) striatopallidal neurons remain poorly understood. Using a genetic mouse model, we found that ablation of D"2R neurons in the entire striatum induced hyperlocomotion, whereas ablation in the ventral striatum increased amphetamine conditioned place preference. Thus D"2R striatopallidal neurons limit both locomotion and, unexpectedly, drug reinforcement. © 2009 Nature America, Inc. All rights reserved.