HTR2C

G protein-coupled receptor for 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin). Also functions as a receptor for various drugs and psychoactive substances, including ergot alkaloid derivatives, 1-2,5,-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl-2-aminopropane (DOI) and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). Ligand binding causes a conformation change that triggers signaling via guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) and modulates the activity of downstream effectors. HTR2C is coupled to G(q)/G(11) G alpha proteins and activates phospholipase C-beta, releasing diacylglycerol (DAG) and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) second messengers that modulate the activity of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and promote the release of Ca(2+) ions from intracellular stores, respectively. Beta-arrestin family members inhibit signaling via G proteins and mediate activation of alternative signaling pathways. Regulates neuronal activity via the activation of short transient receptor potential calcium channels in the brain, and thereby modulates the activation of pro-opiomelanocortin neurons and the release of CRH that then regulates the release of corticosterone (By similarity). Plays a role in the regulation of appetite and eating behavior, responses to anxiogenic stimuli and stress (By similarity). Plays a role in insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis (By similarity)..

Function from UniProtKB (P28335), read 2026-09-23. CC BY 4.0.