Htr2a gene and 5-HT2A receptor expression in the cerebral cortex studied using genetically modified mice
Frontiers in Neuroscience January 1, 2010 Weber 201 citations
The 5-HT(2A) subtype of serotonin receptor is strongly expressed in the cerebral cortex and is linked to mental disorders and the effects of hallucinogens. Using genetically modified mice, three main neuronal populations expressing the Htr2a gene were identified: layer V pyramidal cells in the anterior cortex, GABAergic interneurons in middle layers, and non-pyramidal cells in the subplate/Layer VIb. 5-HT(2A) receptors are concentrated in a diffuse band over layer Va, with a strong anteroposterior gradient matching the pyramidal cell distribution. Most middle-layer GABAergic interneurons are parvalbumin-expressing fast-spiking cells that are depolarized and excited by serotonin, likely via 5-HT(2A) receptors.