Final answer:
The 4 main dopaminergic pathways in the brain are the mesolimbic, mesocortical, nigrostriatal, and tuberoinfundibular pathways. They are involved in regulating emotions, motivation, reward, cognitive functions, movement, and hormone release.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 4 main dopaminergic pathways in the brain are the mesolimbic pathway, the mesocortical pathway, the nigrostriatal pathway, and the tuberoinfundibular pathway.
The mesolimbic pathway is involved in the regulation of emotions, motivation, and reward. It connects the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the nucleus accumbens, among other areas.
The mesocortical pathway regulates cognitive functions, such as working memory, attention, and decision-making. It connects the VTA and various regions of the prefrontal cortex.
The nigrostriatal pathway controls movement and motor coordination. It connects the substantia nigra and the striatum.
The tuberoinfundibular pathway regulates hormone release from the pituitary gland. It connects the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland.