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Correlation between different memory systems and striatal dopamine D2/D3 receptor density: a single photon emission
Po See Chen1, Yen Kuang Yang, Yuh-Shiow Lee
1Department of Psychiatry, Medical College and Hospital, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
Psychological Medicine
|April 22, 2005
Summary
Striatal dopamine D2/D3 receptor density is linked to memory functions like working memory and verbal recall in healthy adults. This association persists even when accounting for age-related changes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Radiology
Background:
- The basal ganglia's role in memory systems is established, but the specific function of striatal dopamine activity is less understood.
- Dopamine is a key neurotransmitter involved in motor control and cognitive functions, including memory.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between striatal dopamine D2/D3 receptor density and different memory systems in healthy individuals.
- To determine if age influences striatal dopamine activity and its association with memory performance.
Main Methods:
- Utilized single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with [123I]IBZM to measure striatal dopamine D2/D3 receptor density.
- Assessed memory functions in 62 healthy volunteers (aged 19-61) using the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised.
Main Results:
- Striatal dopamine D2/D3 receptor density showed a decline with increasing age.
- Verbal delayed recall and working memory performance significantly predicted dopamine D2/D3 receptor density.
- These memory-dopamine relationships remained significant after controlling for age.
Conclusions:
- Striatal dopamine activity is significantly associated with memory systems, beyond its known role in motor functions.
- This link may offer insights into the co-occurrence of memory and motor impairments in neuropsychiatric disorders.