About Site Map Contact Us |A service of the U.S. National
Library of Medicine®| On this page: Reviewed February 2008 What
is the official name of the DRD3 gene? The official name of this
gene is “dopamine receptor D3.” DRD3 is the gene's official
symbol. The DRD3 gene is also known by other names, listed
below. Read more about gene names and symbols on the About page.
What is the normal function of the DRD3 gene? The DRD3 gene
provides instructions for making a protein called dopamine
receptor D3, which is found in the brain. This protein responds
to the chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) dopamine to trigger
signals within the nervous system, including signals involved in
producing physical movement. Does the DRD3 gene share
characteristics with other genes? The DRD3 gene belongs to a
family of genes called GPCR (G protein-coupled receptors). A
gene family is a group of genes that share important
characteristics. Classifying individual genes into families
helps researchers describe how genes are related to