Which neurological disorders are linked to increase dopamine secretion?

Dopamine is a crucial neurotransmitter in the brain that plays a significant role in controlling motor functions, emotional responses and reward pathways. It is involved in regulating mood, movement and several other physiological processes. However, when there is an imbalance in dopamine secretion or its activity, it can lead to several neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. An increase in dopamine activity is linked to certain disorders, where excessive dopamine levels in specific brain regions can lead to abnormal behaviors and symptoms.

Here are two neurological disorders closely associated with increased dopamine secretion:

1. Tourette Syndrome

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements (motor tics) and sounds (vocal tics). It often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood. In individuals with Tourette Syndrome, there is evidence of increased dopamine activity, particularly in the basal ganglia, a brain structure involved in motor control and coordination. Dopamine plays a crucial role in the functioning of the basal ganglia and its overactivity can disrupt the normal regulation of motor movements, leading to the appearance of tics.

While the exact cause of Tourette Syndrome is not entirely understood, it is believed that genetic factors, along with neurotransmitter imbalances (including dopamine), contribute to its development. The treatment of TS often involves the use of dopamine antagonists (medications that block dopamine receptors), which help reduce the excessive dopamine activity and alleviate the tics. Additionally, dopamine modulators are sometimes used to balance the neurotransmitter's effect in the brain.

2. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder that causes a strong, uncontrollable urge to move the legs, usually due to uncomfortable sensations such as tingling, crawling, or burning. These sensations mostly occur during periods of rest or inactivity, especially in the evening or at night and often interfere with sleep. RLS is associated with increased dopamine activity in the brain, particularly in the regions involved in motor control such as the substantia nigra and basal ganglia.

Although the exact cause is not fully known, studies suggest that an overactive or imbalanced dopaminergic system plays a central role in RLS. The increased dopamine activity, especially in the evening hours, may contribute to the discomfort and restlessness. Treatment usually includes dopamine agonists like pramipexole or ropinirole, which mimic the action of dopamine and help normalize its effect in the brain, thus relieving symptoms and improving sleep quality.