The dopamine D2 receptor gene DRD2 and the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene CHRNA4 interact on striatal gray matter volume: Evidence from a genetic imaging study

► Midbrain dopaminergic activity is modulated by acetylcholine. ► This interaction can already be found on a molecular genetic level. ► Striatal gray matter volume is jointly influenced by the DRD2 and the CHRNA4 gene. ► This is in line with studies reporting such an interaction on cognitive performance. ► The effect is in line with neurocognitive models on working memory.