Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 19, 2026

Assessment of Dopaminergic Homeostasis in Mice by Use of High-performance Liquid Chromatography Analysis and Synaptosomal Dopamine Uptake
Published on: September 21, 2017
Mean Diffusivity in the Dopaminergic System and Neural Differences Related to Dopaminergic System
Hikaru Takeuchi1, Ryuta Kawashima1,2,3
1Division of Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.
Background:
The mean diffusivity (MD) parameter obtained by diffusion tensor imaging provides a measure of how freely water molecules move in brain tissue. Greater tissue density conferred by closely arrayed cellular structures is assumed to lower MD by inhibiting the free diffusion of water molecules.
Methods:
In this paper, we review studies showing MD variation among regions of the brain dopaminergic system (MDDS), especially subcortical structures such as the putamen, caudate nucleus, and globus pallidus, in different conditions with known associations to dopaminergic system function or dysfunction. The methodologies and background related to MD and MDDS are also discussed.
Results:
Past studies indicate that MDDS is sensitive to pathological derangement of dopaminergic activity, neural changes caused by cognitive and pharmacological interventions that are known to affect the dopaminergic system, and individual character traits related to dopaminergic function.
Conclusion:
These results suggest that MDDS can be one useful tool to tap the neural differences related to the dopaminergic system.
Related Concept Videos
Neural Regulation
Drugs Affecting Neurotransmitter Synthesis
Factors Affecting Drug Distribution: Physiological Barriers
The capillary endothelial barrier allows only smaller molecules below 600 Da (Daltons) to pass through. It also restricts drugs like heparin that are bound to blood components, limiting their movement within the bloodstream.
The...
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Excitatory and Inhibitory Effects of Neurotransmitters

