Bone and Serotonin Receptor Type 2B

Abstract

Serotonin or 5-hydroxytryptamine and its receptors are important in central nervous system, but also in peripheral systems such as bone in which the serotonin plays a significant role. The diversity of action of serotonin results from the multiplicity of its receptors and its capability to signal via a receptor-independent mechanism. Serotonin effects on the skeleton are considered to be mediated via its receptors and serotonin transporter in osteoblasts and osteoclasts. There is also evidence that serotonin can be synthesized by osteoclasts and acts to modulate bone metabolism. Better understanding of the roles of serotonin in bone remodeling is necessary to explain the effects of drugs that disturb serotonin signaling as serotonin-specific reuptake inhibitors. Also, 5-HT2A and 5-HT2B receptor agonists and antagonists can potentially lead to therapeutic approaches to treat bone pathologies.