Pharmacological and genetic interventions in serotonin (5-HT)2C receptors to alter drug abuse and dependence processes

The present review provides an overview on serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT)2C receptors and their relationship to drug dependence. We have focused our discussion on the impact of 5-HT2C receptors on the effects of different classes of addictive drugs, illustrated by reference to data using pharmacological and genetic tools. The neurochemical mechanism of the interaction between 5-HT2C receptors, with focus on the mesocorticolimbic dopaminergic system, and drugs of abuse (using cocaine as an example) is discussed. Finally, we integrate recent nonclinical and clinical research and information with marketed products possessing 5-HT2C receptor binding affinities. Accordingly, available nonclinical data and some clinical observations targeting 5-HT2C receptors may offer innovative translational strategies for combating drug dependence.This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Brain Integration.