5-HT1B receptor

5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) receptor 1B, also known as HTR1B, is a human 5-HT receptor, but also denotes the gene encoding it.

Tissue distribution and function
5-HT1B acts on the CNS, where it induces presynaptic inhibition and behavioural effects. It also has vascular effects, such as pulmonary vasoconstriction.

5-HT1B receptors are present in many parts of the human brain. The highest concentrations are found in the basal ganglia, striatum and the frontal cortex. The function of the receptor differs between the areas: in the frontal lobes it is believed to act as an terminal receptor, inhibiting the release of dopamine. In the striatum and the basal ganglia, the 5-HT1B receptor is thought to act as an autoreceptor, inhibiting the release of serotonin.

Knockout mice lacking the 5-HT1B gene has shown an increase of aggression and a higher preference for alcohol.