Htr2C is an important component in the neurobiology of neurodegenerative diseases. This page provides detailed information about its structure, function, and role in disease processes.
Serotonin receptor involved in mood, appetite, and motor control
The HTR2C gene (5-Hydroxytryptamine Receptor 2C) is located on chromosome Xq24 and encodes a protein involved in G protein-coupled receptor signaling. This gene has been implicated in several neurodegenerative diseases and neuropsychiatric disorders.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Symbol | HTR2C |
| Full Name | 5-Hydroxytryptamine Receptor 2C |
| Chromosomal Location | Xq24 |
| NCBI Gene ID | 3358 |
| OMIM | 312861 |
| Ensembl ID | ENSG00000128266 |
| UniProt ID | P28335 |
The HTR2C gene encodes the 5-HT2C receptor, a Gq-coupled GPCR expressed primarily in the choroid plexus, cortex, hippocampus, basal ganglia, and hypothalamus. This receptor regulates mood, anxiety, appetite, sleep-wake cycles, and motor control. 5-HT2C receptors inhibit dopamine release in the mesolimbic pathway, making them targets for antipsychotic drugs. In Alzheimer's disease, 5-HT2C receptor alterations contribute to neuropsychiatric symptoms including agitation and depression. In Parkinson's disease, 5-HT2C antagonists may help reduce dyskinesias.
The HTR2C gene has been linked to the following diseases:
High expression in choroid plexus (highest), hypothalamus (arcuate nucleus, paraventricular nucleus), basal ganglia (striatum, substantia nigra), hippocampus (CA1, dentate gyrus), cortex (layers 2-6), and amygdala. Lower expression in thalamus and brainstem.
5-HT2C antagonists (agomelatine) approved for depression. Lorcaserin (withdrawn) was a 5-HT2C agonist for obesity. 5-HT2C agonists cause weight loss and are being investigated for metabolic disorders. In neurodegeneration, 5-HT2C modulators may help with neuropsychiatric symptoms. Tramadol and mCPP are 5-HT2C agonists.
The study of Htr2C has evolved significantly over the past decades. Research in this area has revealed important insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration and continues to drive therapeutic development.
Historical context and key discoveries in this field have shaped our current understanding and will continue to guide future research directions.
The HTR2C gene is located on the X chromosome (Xq24) and encodes the 5-HT2C receptor, a Gq-coupled GPCR. The gene spans approximately 35 kb and contains multiple exons with alternative splicing.
| Drug | Mechanism | Indication |
|---|---|---|
| Agomelatine | 5-HT2C antagonist + MT1/2 agonist | Depression |
| Lorcaserin | 5-HT2C agonist | Obesity (withdrawn) |
| Tramadol | 5-HT2C agonist component | Pain |