Na+,K+-ATPase and Cardiotonic Steroids in Models of Dopaminergic System Pathologies

In recent years, enough evidence has accumulated to assert that cardiotonic steroids, Na+,K+-ATPase ligands, play an integral role in the physiological and pathophysiological processes body. However, little is known about function of these compounds central nervous system. Endogenous steroids are involved pathogenesis affective disorders, including depression bipolar disorder, which linked dopaminergic system dysfunction. Animal models have shown steroid ouabain induces mania-like behavior through dopamine-dependent intracellular signaling pathways. addition, mutations alpha subunit lead development neurological pathologies. Evidence from animal confirms consequences subunit. This review dedicated discussing pathologies—both supporting their involvement potential pathways along they may exert effects evaluated. Since there association between disorders accompanied by functional alterations such as Parkinson’s disease, we extend our discussion neurodegenerative diseases well.