Dbh-flox Mouse

Dbh, short for Dopamine β-Hydroxylase, is a gene that plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular dopamine content and regulating dopamine turnover in neurons [3]. It is associated with the biosynthesis of norepinephrine from dopamine, which is involved in various physiological functions, such as the regulation of the nervous system and cardiovascular responses.

In recent research, it has been found that Dbh+ neurons in the nucleus of the solitary tract (nTS) of the brainstem are essential for allergen-induced airway hyperreactivity, a hallmark of asthma. Ablation or chemogenetic inactivation of Dbh+ nTS neurons blunted hyperreactivity, while chemogenetic activation promoted it. These neurons project to the nucleus ambiguus (NA), and delivery of noradrenaline antagonists to the NA also blunted hyperreactivity, suggesting noradrenaline as the transmitter between Dbh+ nTS and NA [1,2].

In conclusion, Dbh is crucial for regulating dopamine levels and is involved in key neural-mediated physiological responses. The use of genetic models, such as the inactivation of Dbh+ neurons in mice, has revealed its significant role in allergen-induced airway hyperreactivity, providing potential insights for understanding and treating asthma.