The Role of 5-HT2B Receptor on Aggression and Drugs of Abuse

Abstract

Monoamines, particularly serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT), have been extensively studied in the context of aggression. 5-HT is known to play a key role in the modulation of aggressive, impulsive, antisocial, and violent behavior. There are several hypotheses that intend to explain the underlying relationship between 5-HT and aggressive behavior. While normal levels of 5-HT have an inhibitory effect on brain regions involved in aggressive behavior, a reduction in 5-HT activity increases aggression. Genetic factors are involved in the relationship between 5-HT and aggressive behavior and several genetic variants that influence aggressive behavior have been identified. 5-HT effects are mediated by at least 14 receptor subtypes and grouped into seven 5-HT receptor families (5-HT1–5-HT7 receptor). In the brain, 5-HT receptors are distributed pre- and post-synaptically and it is believed that these different subtypes may exert opposing effects on aggressive behavior. Aggressive behavior is influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including substance use. A high proportion of all crimes are committed under the influence of substances of abuse including alcohol, cannabis, cocaine. In this chapter, we will focus on 5-HT2B receptor and will discuss its role in the modulation of aggressive and impulsive behaviors as well as related traits such as drug abuse.