A Role for the 5-HT2B Receptor in the Neurobiology of Schizophrenia

Abstract

It has been shown that several atypical antipsychotic drugs have affinity over the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) 2B (5-HT2B) receptor. Thus, it is theorized that this receptor subtype may play a unique role in both their antipsychotic mechanism of action and in the neurobiology of schizophrenia. In the current book chapter, we review recent genetic and pharmacological experimental evidence from our group and others that support a role for the 5-HT2B receptor in the pathophysiology and treatment of psychosis. Future research aiming at discerning the developmental and the pharmacological effects of the 5-HT2B receptor on the regulation of the brain’s intricate neurochemical systems may help establish a novel druggable molecular target that could lead to more effective pharmacotherapies for the treatment of psychosis and other devastating brain disorders.