The Role of Dopamine in Neurological, Psychiatric, and Metabolic Disorders and Cancer: A Complex Web of Interactions

Dopamine, a key neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, is essential for regulating a wide range of physiological processes, including motor control, reward processing, mood regulation, and decision-making [1,2,3]. However, its function extends well beyond these traditional roles. Emerging research indicates that dopamine is not only vital for neurological and psychiatric health but also plays a key role in metabolic processes and even cancer progression. The dopamine signaling pathway, comprising the synthesis and release of dopamine, receptor binding, and reuptake, is a complex and finely tuned system that maintains physiological balance and overall well-being. Disruptions within this pathway, however, are linked to various pathological conditions, underscoring its critical role in both health and disease. Altered dopamine signaling is implicated in neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s disease [4], psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia and addiction [5], and other systemic pathologies. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying these disruptions offers opportunities for innovative therapeutic approaches, making it imperative to further investigate dopamine’s role across different biological systems. In this editorial for the Special Issue titled “Dopamine Signaling Pathway in Health and Disease,” we delve into the multifaceted role of dopamine, the consequences of its dysfunction across various physiological systems, and the promising therapeutic potential of modulating its signaling pathways. This investigation is critical for developing more effective and personalized treatments for conditions ranging from Parkinson’s disease (PD) to cancer.