The generation of midbrain dopaminergic neurons

Midbrain dopamine neurons play a critical role in numerous neurological functions, such as motor coordination, reward behavior, and executive function. These neurons project to multiple forebrain areas. Recent optogenetics and genetic circuit tracing studies demonstrate that subsets of midbrain dopamine neurons establish specific circuits and are involved in the modulation of specific brain functions. This chapter looks at the origins of midbrain dopamine neurons and the genetic cascade involved in their development. It will also outline the developmental processes that play a role in specifying diverse subpopulations of midbrain dopamine neurons. Finally, this chapter will discuss how genes important in the development of dopamine neurons play an additional role in the maintenance of mature midbrain dopamine neurons in the adult brain.