Evaluating the effect of the dopamine receptor D2 on signaling of the neurotensin receptor 1

Abstract

Meth is one of the most commonly misused drugs in the world with no FDA-approved therapeutics. NTSR1 is commonly co-expressed with the dopamine receptor 2 (D2) in dopamine-rich brain regions and has been shown to attenuate the behavioral effects of psychostimulants (e.g., meth and cocaine). Understanding the relationship between NTSR1 and D2 could help find promising treatments for MUD. This research will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between these two receptors. By using Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer assay, we find that dopamine-induced D2 activation enhances G protein activation by NTSR1 but has no effect on β-arrestin recruitment to the NTSR1.