5-HT2B polyclonal antibody

Serotonin (also designated 5-hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT) is a molecule that functions as a neurotransmitter, a hormone and a mitogen, and it is predomi_x0002_nantly expressed in the gut, platelets and central nervous system (CNS) . In the CNS, serotonin modulates several processes, including anxiety, sleep, appetite, behavior and drug abuse. In platelets and gut, serotonin plays a major role in cardiovascular function and motility of the gastrointestinal tract, respectively. Serotonin mediates its effects through several of G protein-coupled receptors, designated 5-HT receptors or alternatively SR receptors. The SR-2 receptors are comprised of three subtypes, SR-2A, SR-2B and SR-2C, which activate phospholipase C and release intracellular stores of calcium in response to serotonin. SR-2A has a specific role in tracheal smooth muscle contraction, bronchoconstriction and mediating aldosterone production, and it is also thought to play a role in several psychiatric disorders, including depression and schizophrenia. SR-2B is expressed in embryonic and adult cardiovascular tissues, gut and brain and plays an important role in the pathology of cardiac disorders. SR-2C is thought to mediate the effects of atypical antipsychotic drugs.