Thanks for the corrections, and additional information, Neuroguy and Peter. If I have the terminology correct, the 5HT receptor domain consists of fourteen known serotonin receptors. As Peter posted, some drugs primarily affect certain receptors; and all SSRI's increase general serotonin levels. And, as Neuroguy says, there is cross-reactivity such that more than one receptor can be affected by a given molecule.
The point is not pedantic, because it points to _how_ one makes better psychoactive drugs. Some day, psychiatrists may order lab (or other) diagnostic work to determine which points within the domain should be stimulated/inhibited. Within this group are receptors linked to feeding, sleep, sexual activity, etc. It seems very likely that "cross reactivity" is the cause of some unwanted effects. More selective molecules, with better diagnostics supporting their use, can lead to focused treatment with fewer unintended effects. It also seems likely that chiral approaches can narrow the effect of a given drug, because of the cross-reactivity that occurs with existing ones. |
