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Updated: Jul 19, 2026

Rapid In Situ Hybridization using Oligonucleotide Probes on Paraformaldehyde-prefixed Brain of Rats with Serotonin Syndrome
Published on: September 23, 2015
Central serotonin2C receptor: from physiology to pathology
Giuseppe Di Giovanni1, Vincenzo Di Matteo, Massimo Pierucci
1Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sezione di Fisiologia Umana G. Pagano, Università di Palermo, C.so Tuköry, 129 I-90134 Palermo, Italy.
Serotonin (5-HT) influences cognitive and behavioral functions. This review focuses on the 5-HT2C receptor
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Serotonin (5-HT) is a key neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS), discovered in the 1950s.
- It originates from raphe nuclei neurons but projects throughout the CNS, modulating cognitive and behavioral functions.
- Numerous 5-HT receptor subtypes exist, highlighting the complexity of serotonin signaling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the physiology, pharmacology, and distribution of the 5-HT2C receptor in the CNS.
- To explore the pathophysiological role of the 5-HT2C receptor.
- To discuss its potential involvement in neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on 5-HT2C receptors.
- Synthesis of data on receptor physiology, pharmacology, and CNS distribution.
- Analysis of studies linking 5-HT2C receptor function to disease states.
Main Results:
- The 5-HT2C receptor is a prominent subtype within the CNS.
- Its distribution and function are critical for normal brain activity.
- Evidence suggests a role in the pathophysiology of depression, schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, and drug abuse.
Conclusions:
- The 5-HT2C receptor is a significant target for understanding CNS disorders.
- Further research into 5-HT2C receptor modulation may offer therapeutic avenues.
- This receptor subtype plays a crucial role in various brain functions and associated pathologies.
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