Cocaine- and Amphetamine-regulated Transcript (CART) Peptide and the Mesolimbic and Nigrostriatal Dopaminergic Systems

Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) peptide was discovered in the treatment of cocaine and amphetamine addiction in rats and received its name from this relationship. The functional role of CART peptide is strongly associated with feeding behaviors, and reward and reinforcement. Recently, a number of studies have shown that mesolimbic and nigrostriatal dopaminergic neuronal activities are also under the regulation of CART peptide. In this mini-review, we will introduce the current knowledge on the neuroanatomical, neurochemical and behavioral aspects of interactions of CART peptide with the mesolimbic and nigrostriatal dopamine pathways. Overall, it is clear that there are functional interactions among CART peptide, dopamine, and psychostimulants. The next step is to clarify the receptor(s) and mechanisms of CART peptide to develop potential therapeutic drugs.