Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026

Rapid In Situ Hybridization using Oligonucleotide Probes on Paraformaldehyde-prefixed Brain of Rats with Serotonin Syndrome
Published on: September 23, 2015
Serotonin 5-HT(3) receptors in the central nervous system
Pascal Chameau1, Johannes A van Hooft
1Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for NeuroScience, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 94084, NL-1090 GB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
The 5-HT(3) receptor is a ligand-gated ion channel activated by serotonin (5-HT). Although originally identified in the peripheral nervous system, the 5-HT(3) receptor is also ubiquitously expressed in the central nervous system. Sites of expression include several brain stem nuclei and higher cortical areas such as the amygdala, hippocampus, and cortex. On the subcellular level, both presynaptic and postsynaptic 5-HT(3) receptors can be found. Presynaptic 5-HT(3) receptors are involved in mediating or modulating neurotransmitter release. Postsynaptic 5-HT(3) receptors are preferentially expressed on interneurons. In view of this specific expression pattern and of the well-established role of 5-HT as a neurotransmitter shaping development, we speculate that 5-HT(3) receptors play a role in the formation and function of cortical circuits.
Related Concept Videos
Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Serotonin Receptor Agonists
G-protein Coupled Receptors
Neurotransmitters
Neurotransmitters
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists
Drugs Affecting Neurotransmitter Release or Uptake
