Project Summary

Peter B. Hedlund, M.D., Ph.D. (Young Investigator 2004) of The Scripps Research Institute, plans to follow up on preliminary evidence that a new serotonergic receptor, the 5-HT7 receptor, may play a role in depression The serotonergic system of the brain has been shown to be important in both the normal and pathological regulation of mood, sleep and circadian rhythms. Now, new findings by Dr. Hedlund reveal that mice lacking this receptor show a physiological and behavioral profile indicating that blocking this receptor could treat depression. The data suggests that such a treatment may have a general antidepressant effect but also, in contrast with other drugs acting at serotonin receptors, might correct sleep disturbances typically present in depression. Direct targeting of the 5-HT7 receptor may also work faster than traditional antidepressants.

Program Area: MOOD DISORDERS\Unipolar Depression

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