A2A/D2 receptor heteromerization in a model of Parkinson's disease. Focus on striatal aminoacidergic signaling

The present manuscript mainly summarizes the basic concepts and the molecular mechanisms underlying adenosine A(2A)-dopamine D-2 receptor-receptor interactions in the basal ganglia. Special emphasis is placed on neurochemical, behavioral and electrophysiological findings supporting the functional role that A(2A)/D-2 heteromeric receptor complexes located on striatopallidal GABA neurons and corticostriatal glutamate terminals play in the regulation of the so called basal ganglia indirect pathway. Furthermore, the role of A(2A)/mGluR(5) synergistic interactions in striatal neuron function and dysfunction is discussed. The functional consequences of the interactions between striatal adenosine A(2A), mGluR(5) and dopamine D-2 receptors on striatopallidal GABA release and motor behavior dysfunctions suggest the possibility of simultaneously targeting these receptors in Parkinson's disease treatment. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Brain Integration. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Brain Integration. (c) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.