There are four dopaminergic pathways in the brainstem, 3 in the midbrain and 1 in the hypothalamus.
1 - The mesolimbic pathway - the reward pathway - disorders are associated with addiction and anhedonia (a lack of pleasure).
2 - The mesocortical pathway - plays a large role in cognitive function - dysfunction associated with schizophrenia.
3 - The nigrostriatal pathway - involved in motor control and associated with parkinson’s disease.
4 - The tuberoinfundibular pathway - prevents prolactin release - important for the treatment of psychosis.