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Thermostabilization, Expression, Purification, and Crystallization of the Human Serotonin Transporter Bound to S-citalopram
Published on: November 27, 2016
Serotonin transporters: implications for antidepressant drug development
Kellie J White1, Crystal C Walline, Eric L Barker
1Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University School of Pharmacy, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
The AAPS Journal
|December 16, 2005
Summary
Antidepressants target the serotonin transporter (SERT) to alleviate depression symptoms. This review explores how antidepressants interact with SERT, influencing its expression and efficacy, and considers genetic factors and future drug development.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Genetics
Background:
- Depression etiology is complex, with the monoamine theory implicating serotonergic and noradrenergic systems.
- The serotonin transporter (SERT) is a key pharmacological target for antidepressant therapies.
- Understanding molecular interactions with SERT is crucial for effective depression treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular interactions between antidepressants and SERT.
- To examine the effects of antidepressants on SERT regulation, expression, and associated receptors.
- To discuss the role of SERT gene polymorphisms in antidepressant efficacy and future drug development.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of molecular interactions between antidepressants and SERT.
- Analysis of studies on SERT regulation and expression following antidepressant treatment.
- Examination of research on SERT gene polymorphisms and antidepressant response.
Main Results:
- Antidepressants interact with SERT, modulating its function and expression.
- Chronic antidepressant treatment can alter SERT expression, potentially contributing to therapeutic benefits.
- SERT gene polymorphisms influence individual responses to antidepressant medications.
Conclusions:
- Targeting SERT is a validated strategy for depression treatment.
- Understanding SERT's molecular pharmacology and genetic variations is key to personalized antidepressant therapy.
- Future antidepressant development should consider these molecular and genetic factors for improved efficacy and safety.
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