ReviewEffects of 5-HT-7 receptor ligands on memory and cognition

- 5-HT7 receptors are GPCRs involved in the regulation of higher cognitive processes.
- 5-HT7 ligands may enhance cognitive flexibility, spatial memory and emotional memory.
- The contribution of 5-HT7 antagonism to the effects of marketed drugs remains unclear.
- Selective 5-HT7 ligands seem promising for the treatment of autism and fragile X syndrome.

The 5-HT7R is the most recently cloned serotonin receptor and thus one the least studied. Many drugs, experimental and in clinical use bind to 5-HT7 with high affinity, though their effects have yet to be clearly elucidated. Its physiological function, though not completely clear, is mostly associated with learning and memory, with both agonists and antagonists possessing subtle procognitive and promnesic properties. We consider it a promising area of research, though still in its infancy, which may one day lead to clinical benefits for patients with various afflictions characterised by cognitive dysfunction, particularily autism spectrum disorder, fragile X syndrome and Alzheimer's disease.