5-HT2A receptors are excitatory serotonin receptors mediating psychedelic experiences, platelet aggregation, and smooth muscle contraction.
| Property |
Value |
| Category |
Receptor neurons |
| Neurotransmitter |
Serotonin |
| Receptor |
5-HT2A (HTR2A) |
| Brain Regions |
Cortex, claustrum, basal ganglia |
- Gq coupling: Activates phospholipase C
- Excitatory: Depolarization
- Psychedelics: LSD, psilocybin target
- Platelet aggregation: Thromboxane release
- 5-HT2A dysfunction: Hypothesis
- Atypical antipsychotics: 5-HT2A antagonism
- Negative symptoms: Treatment
- 5-HT2A antagonists: Antidepressant potential
- SSRIs: Downregulation
- Psilocybin: Rapid effects
- 5-HT2B/2C: Triptan mechanism
- Vasoconstriction: Treatment
- Cortical spreading depression: Modulation
- Nichols DE, 5-HT2A receptors (2016)
- McGill MR, 5-HT2A receptor signaling (2017)