Serotonin receptor

Serotonin receptor

The Serotonin receptor, also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor or 5-HT receptor, is a type of receptor that interacts with serotonin to induce various biological responses. Serotonin receptors are found in almost all animals and are known to influence a wide variety of physiological and psychological processes.

Types of Serotonin Receptors

There are seven known types of serotonin receptors, classified as 5-HT1, 5-HT2, 5-HT3, 5-HT4, 5-HT5, 5-HT6, and 5-HT7. Each type has different subtypes, and the structure and function of these receptors vary widely.

5-HT1 Receptors

5-HT1 receptors are a family of G-protein coupled receptors that are activated by the neurotransmitter serotonin. They are located primarily in the central and peripheral nervous system.

5-HT2 Receptors

5-HT2 receptors are a subfamily of 5-HT receptors that bind to serotonin. They are primarily found in the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system.

5-HT3 Receptors

5-HT3 receptors are the only serotonin receptors that function as ligand-gated ion channels, rather than G-protein coupled receptors. They are located in the central and peripheral nervous system.

5-HT4, 5-HT5, 5-HT6, and 5-HT7 Receptors

5-HT4, 5-HT5, 5-HT6, and 5-HT7 receptors are less well understood than the other types of serotonin receptors. They are all G-protein coupled receptors and are found in various locations throughout the body.

Function

Serotonin receptors regulate the release of many neurotransmitters, including glutamate, GABA, dopamine, adrenaline, norepinephrine, acetylcholine, and oxytocin. They also affect the release of many hormones, including vasopressin, prolactin, oxytocin, cortisol, and substance P.

Clinical significance

Serotonin receptors are the target of a variety of pharmaceutical and illicit drugs, including many antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, antiemetics, and hallucinogens. These drugs work by either blocking or stimulating the receptors, which alters the balance of serotonin in the body and can help to alleviate a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.

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