5-HT3 receptor
5-HT3 receptor is a type of serotonin receptor, or 5-HT receptor, that binds serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood, appetite, and sleep. This receptor is found in the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract, and plays a role in the perception of pain and the process of vomiting.
Structure[edit | edit source]
The 5-HT3 receptor is a member of the Cys-loop superfamily of ligand-gated ion channels (LGICs) and, unlike most other serotonin receptors, is not a G protein-coupled receptor. It is a pentameric receptor, meaning it is composed of five subunits. These subunits are arranged symmetrically around a central ion-conducting pore, which is permeable to sodium, potassium, and calcium ions.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary role of the 5-HT3 receptor is to mediate fast, excitatory neurotransmission. When serotonin binds to the receptor, it causes the ion channel to open, allowing positively charged ions to flow into the cell. This influx of ions depolarizes the cell membrane and triggers an action potential, which then propagates the signal to the next neuron.
In the central nervous system, 5-HT3 receptors are found in the brainstem and the limbic system, where they are involved in the regulation of mood, anxiety, and the perception of pain. In the gastrointestinal tract, these receptors are involved in the reflex arc that triggers vomiting.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
Because of their role in the vomiting reflex, 5-HT3 receptors are a target for antiemetic drugs, which are used to treat nausea and vomiting. These drugs, known as 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, include ondansetron and granisetron.
In addition, some studies suggest that 5-HT3 receptor antagonists may be effective in treating certain mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety, although more research is needed in this area.
See also[edit | edit source]
- Serotonin
- Serotonin receptor
- 5-HT3 receptor antagonist
- G protein-coupled receptor
- Ligand-gated ion channel
- Cys-loop
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