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Mount Sinai scientists unravel how psychedelic drugs interact with serotonin receptors to potentially produce therapeutic benefits

Researchers have shed light on the mechanisms by which psychedelic drugs, such as LSD and psilocybin, bind to and activate serotonin receptors. The study highlights the potential therapeutic benefits of these compounds in treating depression and anxiety disorders.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024

Serotonin booster leads to increased functional brain connectivity

A new study found that the serotonin booster prucalopride increased functional brain connectivity in healthy adults, particularly between cognitive networks. The results suggest that prucalopride may improve cognitive function and have therapeutic potential for depression patients.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2023

Sudden infant death syndrome may have biologic cause

Researchers found altered serotonin 2A/C receptor binding in brain stems of infants who died from SIDS, suggesting a biological basis for the condition. The study suggests that specific combinations of genetic vulnerability, external stressors, and critical developmental periods may contribute to SIDS.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Neuropathology & Experimental Neurology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 25, 2023

Dynamic expression of brain serotonin receptors across the menstrual cycle provides clues about premenstrual dysphoric disorder

Researchers discovered a significant increase in serotonin transporter density in the midbrain of patients with PMDD during the periovulatory phase, which was associated with increased depressed mood. The study suggests that taking SSRIs at specific times during the menstrual cycle may help target these changes and alleviate symptoms.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2023

New support for a serotonin deficit in depression

Researchers found reduced serotonin release capacity in individuals with depression, suggesting a blunted serotonin system. The study used novel imaging techniques to measure serotonin levels in the brain, providing crucial insights into the pathology of depression.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

45 years on: How serotonin makes schistosome parasites move

A study published in PLOS Pathogens has identified a key player in the movement of schistosome parasites: serotonin receptors. The discovery opens up new avenues for developing targeted treatments against this parasitic flatworm, which affects millions worldwide and kills an estimated 250,000 people annually.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJan 16, 2014

How JC Polyomavirus invades cells

The study reveals that JC polyomavirus uses specific serotonin receptors to gain entry into cells, contrary to initial hypotheses. This discovery could lead to improved treatment options for patients with PML by informing how existing drugs work.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateOct 7, 2013

A faster class of antidepressants

Researchers have discovered a new class of antidepressants that work by directly enhancing nerve impulses of serotonin neurons. The compounds, RS 67333 and prucalopride, target serotonin type-4 receptors and have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression in rats after just three days of treatment.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateSep 5, 2007