Eating disorder and epilepsy in mice lacking 5-HT2c serotonin receptors

Article Abstract:

The 5-hydroxytryptamine-2c (5-HT2c) receptor is vital for the serotonergic control of feeding appetite. Mice with insufficient 5-HT2c receptors are overweight due to a behavioral disorder not a metabolic abnormality. A loss in the 5-HT2c function also results in a diminished seizure threshold and a vigorous advancement of seizure activity. The 5-HT2c receptors link to serotonin, a monoaminergic neurotransmitter involved in the mediation of the tonic inhibition of neuronal network excitability.

Eating disorders, Epilepsy, Serotonin, Serotonin receptors

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Home for an orphan endorphin

Article Abstract:

A peptide which binds to the opioid receptor-like 1 (ORL1), extracted from rat's brain, increases the reactivity to pain. The sensitivity of the rat to pain decreases if the activity of ORL1 is suppressed. The peptide consists of 17 amino acids and posses a structure similar to dynorphin A. The precursor of the peptide is formed in the brain as a larger polyprotein molecule. This peptide has been named noniception and is the only peptide to bind to ORL1.

Analysis, Opioids, Observations, Peptides, Opioid receptors, Cooperative binding (Biochemistry), Nociceptors

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Another opiate for the masses?

Article Abstract:

Endogenous agonists have been discovered for the dynorphin and enkephalin opiate receptors in the mammalian brain. The naturally occurring opioid-endorphins, termed endomorphin-1 and endomorphin-2, appear to be natural ligands for the mu receptor, which is the active site for morphine-related analgesics. Both new endomorphines could provide relief from pain without giving rise to the medical problems associated with morphine.

Research, Ligand binding (Biochemistry), Endorphins

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