Molecular insights into the modulation of the 5HT2A receptor by serotonin, psilocin, and the G protein subunit Gqα.

The 5HT2AR receptor, a G-protein-coupled receptor targeted by psychedelic drugs, collapses to a closed active state without Gqα, revealing an intermediate partially-open conformation. Molecular dynamics simulations and free-energy calculations show that serotonin and psilocin bind more tightly to the orthosteric pocket than to the extended binding pocket. These findings clarify activation mechanisms and may guide development of novel therapeutics for neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Study at a glance

Abstract

5HT2AR is a G-protein-coupled receptor that drives many neuronal functions and is a target for psychedelic drugs. Understanding ligand interactions and conformational transitions is essential for developing effective pharmaceuticals, but mechanistic details of 5HT2AR activation remain poorly understood. We utilized all-atom molecular dynamics simulations and free-energy calculations to investigate 5HT2AR's conformational dynamics upon binding to serotonin and psilocin. We show that the active state of 5HT2AR collapses to a closed state in the absence of Gqα, underscoring the importance of G-protein coupling. We discover an intermediate "partially-open" receptor conformation. Both ligands have higher binding affinities for the orthosteric than the extended binding pocket. These findings enhance our understanding of 5HT2AR's activation and may aid in developing novel therapeutics. Impact statement This study sheds light on 5HT2AR activation, revealing intermediate conformations and ligand dynamics. These insights could enhance drug development for neurological and psychiatric disorders, benefiting researchers and clinicians in pharmacology and neuroscience.