Dopamine D2 receptor and Serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor (D2; 5-HT2A)

The Dopamine D2 receptor and Serotonin 5-HT2A receptor are both G protein-coupled receptors, best known for their central role in modulating neurotransmission in the brain. The D2 receptor is primarily involved in dopaminergic pathways influencing movement, reward, and motivation, while the 5-HT2A receptor mediates serotonergic signaling linked to cognition, perception, and mood. Both are key targets for antipsychotic drug action in schizophrenia and related disorders, where dual antagonism is crucial for efficacy and safety[7][4][5]. The 5-HT2A receptor also mediates the psychotropic effects of hallucinogenic drugs such as LSD and psilocybin[1]. There is complex interplay between these receptors both anatomically and functionally, underlying their joint relevance in neuropsychiatric disease and treatment[2][4].

Other names

Dopamine D2 receptor: D2RDRD2Serotonin 5-HT2A receptor: 5-HT2AHTR2A5-HT2AR

Antagonism or inverse agonism at D2 receptor and 5-HT2A receptor (antipsychotic mechanism) Dual antagonism reduces extrapyramidal side effects Partial agonists at D2 (Aripiprazole) Hallucinogens act as 5-HT2A receptor agonists to induce altered perception/consciousness