Problem 3 Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates a broad spectrum of phy

Question

Problem 3 Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates a broad spectrum of physiologcal activity. Based upon the signally pathways shown below, propose "druggable targets that woud be useful in treating: a) deperssion; b) nausea and vomiting. Identify an upstream and a downstram target for each disorder. Breifly explain your target(s) selection. Serotonin receptors (receptor function) Synaptie Cleft HTR7 copnition, depression L-tryptophan tryptophan hydroxylise HTRcogaition depression S-hydroxy L-tryptophan 5-hydroxytryptophan decarboxylase gastroinestinal motilisy serotonin serotonin (SHT) HTR1vsonstriction, depression triqusporter HTA2psychodelia,schizophrenia, depeessio caadiovascular function S-hydroxy-indoleacetic acid emisis Presynaptic Neuron Postsynaptic Neuron

Explanation / Answer

Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter that is responsible for feelings of joy and well-being. It is produced by the nerve cells and sends signals between nerve cells. It is found mostly in the digestive system. It is also present in the blood platelets and throughout the central nervous system.

Serotonin is made from an essential amino, tryptophan. Deficiency of tryptophan results in lower levels of serotonin which leads to disorders such as anxiety and depression.

A) Treating depression- the upstream target would be the serotonin transporter. The transporter is responsible for taking the serotonin back into the terminal. To prevent this a transporter inhibitor can be used. This helps in incresing the serotonin available in the synaptic space for its uptake. Drugs that can enhance the effect of enzymes responsible for producion of serotonin can help treat depression. The downstream target would be the receptors: HTR1, 2, 7 and 6. Drugs that can substitute serotonin can bind to these receptors when the levels of serotonin are low and can help in treating depression.

B) treatmnt of nausea and vomiting- the upstream target would be the serotonin transporter. The transporter is responsible for taking the serotonin back into the presynaptic neuron. To prevent this a transporter inhibitor can be used. This helps in incresing the serotonin available in the synaptic space for its uptake. Drugs that can enhance the effect of enzymes responsible for producion of serotonin can help treat emisis. The downstream target would be the receptors: HTR3 and 4. Drugs that can substitute serotonin can bind to these receptors when the levels of serotonin are low and can help in treating nausea and vomiting.

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