In a recent paper, Preller et al (2017) have reported that many of the behaviora

Question

In a recent paper, Preller et al (2017) have reported that many of the behavioral effects         of LSD can be attributed to the 5HT-2A receptor.

            a) Why not simply say that the effects are mediated by a serotonin receptor?

            b) Suppose their studies were done with mice. What strategy do you think they                                may have used to determine the role of 5HT-2A receptors in LSD’s                           behavioral effects? Briefly explain.

            c) Preller et al’s study was actually done with humans. What strategy did you                                  think they used (or could have used) to identify the role of the 5HT-2A                                   receptors? Briefly explain.

Explanation / Answer

Serotonin receptors, or the 5-HT receptors , is a group of G-protein coupled receptor and ligand gated ion channels that are present in the central and peripheral nervous system . These receptors are activated by serotonin.

These are divided into the following families -

LSD causes altered perception, as proved by the research , and it does that by specifically activating the 5HT2A receptors, which is a subtype of the serotonin receptor. Only this subtype is responsible for the altered perception. So saying that it affects only the serotonin receptor will be a vague statement.

B) If this experiment was done on mice - In mice , the effects of LSD are as follows -

C) Humans - In humans LSD affects mainly the perception, emotions and self awareness . To demonstrate this , a group of subject people are selected . Then a double blind , randomised trial is performed in which the group is given LSD and placebo in random pattern . The subjects are then observed for any behavioural pattern .

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