Increased desensitization of dopamine D2 receptor-mediated response in the ventral tegmental area in the absence of adenosine A2A receptors

▶We aim to understand the role of A2A receptors in dopaminergic transmission. ▶We examine dopamine D2 receptor function in the VTA of A2A receptor knockout mice. ▶D2 receptor desensitization is increased in dopamine neurons in the absence of A2A. ▶This mechanism may contribute to altered dopaminergic state and CNS disorders.