Dopamine neurons establish a heterogenous set of neurotransmitter release sites.

What is it about?

Dopamine neurons establish a heterogenous set of neurotransmitter release sites, most of which are specialized for dopamine release, while others are specialized for glutamate release. Very few appear to have the machinery allowing them to release both transmitters. Interaction with striatal target cells seems to be critical to regulate the neurochemical identity of dopamine neurons.

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Why is it important?

This discovery is important because it highlights what appears to be a general property of modulatory neurons, such as those releasing dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine and noradrenaline.