Dopamine-sensitive adenyl cyclase: possible role in synaptic transmission.

An adenyl cyclase activated by low concentrations of dopamine has been found in the mammalian superior cervical sympathetic ganglion. The existence of this enzyme may account for the increased amount of adenosine 3',5' monophosphate associated with synaptic activity in the ganglion. The results suggest that the physiological effects of dopamine in the ganglion, and possibly elsewhere in the nervous system, may be mediated by stimulating the synthesis of adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate.