Project Summary

Peter B. Hedlund, M.D., Ph.D. (Young Investigator 2006) of the Scripps Research Institute, plans to use an animal model to investigate one aspect of the brain’s serotonergic system, which is thought to be important in the normal and pathological regulation of mood and sleep and circadian rhythms. A recently discovered serotonin (5-HT) receptor, the 5-HT[stet] receptor, is believed to mediate several of the effects of serotonin. Even though the receptor’s function is not completely understood, preliminary results from Dr. Hedlund’s laboratory show it may have considerable importance for depressive disorders. Mice that lack this receptor show a physiological and behavioral profile indicating that blockade of the receptor would be a treatment for depression. The data suggest that such a treatment would have a general antidepressant effect and, in contrast with other drugs acting at serotonin receptors, correct sleep disturbances typically present in depression. Direct targeting of the 5-HT7 receptor may also provide a faster onset of antidepressant activity than is now seen with traditional pharmaceuticals.

Program Area: MOOD DISORDERS\Unipolar

Search Again