Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 7, 2026

Humanized Mediator Release Assay as a Read-Out for Allergen Potency
Published on: June 29, 2021
The roles of histamine and its receptor ligands in central nervous system disorders: An update
1Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health of China, School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China.
Abstract:
The neurotransmitter histamine receives less attention compared with other biogenic amines, because of its moderate action in the central nervous system (CNS). However, recent evidence suggests that histamine plays an important role in multiple CNS disorders including insomnia, narcolepsy, Parkinson's diseases, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and cerebral ischemia. New insights are emerging into the potential roles of histamine receptors as targets for the treatment of these diseases. Although some histamine related agents have failed in clinical trials, current preclinical studies suggest that this neurotransmitter may still have extensive applications in treating CNS disorders, however, advanced studies are warranted. This review summarizes findings from animal models and clinical research on the role of histamine and its receptor ligands in the brain for treatment of CNS disorders. The development of novel histamine receptor ligands and gaining an in-depth understanding of their potential mechanisms are necessary stepping stones to unlock their wide-ranging applications in the clinical arena.
Related Concept Videos
Ligand-Gated Ion Channel Receptor: Gating Mechanism
Ligand-gated Ion Channels
Three Subfamilies of Ligand-gated Ion Channels
Ligand-gated ion channels fall into three subfamilies. The 'Cys-loop' includes the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glycine, and 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors. The second one is the 'Pore-loop' channels that...
Upper Respiratory Drugs: First and Second-Generation Antihistamines
Histamine binds to specific receptor sites, known as H1 receptors, on tissue cells, triggering inflammation and swelling. Antihistamines combat these effects by competing with histamine for these receptor sites. By...
Neurotransmitters
Neurotransmitters
Pathophysiology of Vomiting

