ABSTRACT
This chapter covers the expression and functions of peripheral dopamine (DA) and its receptors in three very important physiological systems: renal, cardiovascular and pulmonary. In the kidney, the five DA receptors (DARs) are differentially expressed along the nephrons and in adjacent structures. Locally produced DA is closely associated with many renal functions, including ion transport, natriuresis, and the maintenance of fluid hemodynamics. Renal DA is also involved with kidney disorders such as essential hypertension and diabetic nephropathy. In the cardiovascular system, DAR subtypes are expressed in the heart and in various types of blood vessels where DA is involved in blood pressure regulation and angiogenesis. Acting through both DAR and adrenergic receptors, DA is involved in cardiovascular pathologies such as cardiac ischemia and septic shock. In the respiratory system, DA participates in the regulation of airway diameter and is a major regulator of oxygen sensing by the carotid bodies. DA is also associated with some pulmonary dysfunctions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and pulmonary edema.
