neuron dopaminergic neuron A dopaminergic neuron is a neuron that releases dopamine from its synapses. Dopaminergic neurons are present chiefly in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) of the midbrain, substantia nigra pars compacta, and arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus. They are believed to be the primary neuron used in the reward system of the ventral tegmental area and the substantia nigra pars compacta. BTO:0004032 BrendaTissueOBO