5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2A, 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 6, and 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 7 (5-HT2A, 5-HT6, 5-HT7)

The 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2A (5-HT2A), 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 6 (5-HT6), and 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 7 (5-HT7) are subtypes of serotonin receptors, belonging to the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family. These receptors are primarily expressed in the central nervous system and mediate the effects of the neurotransmitter serotonin via distinct intracellular signaling pathways. The 5-HT2A receptor is especially abundant in the cerebral cortex and is associated with cognition, perception, and is the principal molecular target for the effects of classic hallucinogens. The 5-HT6 and 5-HT7 receptors are found throughout brain regions relevant to memory, mood, learning, and circadian rhythm regulation. Dysregulation or abnormal signaling through these receptors has been implicated in major neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders, and drugs targeting these receptors are used clinically as antipsychotics, antidepressants, or cognitive enhancers.

Other names

Serotonin receptor 2AHTR2ASerotonin receptor 6HTR6Serotonin receptor 7HTR7

G protein-mediated activation or inhibition of second messenger pathways (phospholipase C for 5-HT2A, adenylyl cyclase for 5-HT7). Modulation of neurotransmitter release. Functional selectivity (ligands may differentially activate intracellular pathways, particularly for 5-HT2A). Drugs may function as agonists, partial agonists, antagonists, or inverse agonists depending on the receptor and clinical application.