Dopamine-sensitive adenylyl cyclases in neuronal development: physiopathological and pharmacological implications.

Pharmacological studies on molecular mechanisms leading the differentiation of neurons with retained dopaminergic fate and function are claimed for treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia. This goal could be achieved by neuronal replacement therapies based upon the manipulation of endogenous precursors in situ or by transplantation-based approaches. Signals conveyed by the adenylyl cyclase pathway seem crucial for a suitable differentiation of neurons. Therefore, dopamine-sensitive isoforms of adenylyl cyclase are here considered as key cues for dopaminergic neuronal patterning and so as interesting therapeutic targets to induce regenerative processes or drive correct neuronal development.