Function and distribution of 5-HT2 receptors in the honeybee (Apis mellifera).

ABSTRACT:

Background

Serotonin plays a pivotal role in regulating and modulating physiological and behavioral processes in both vertebrates and invertebrates. In the honeybee (Apis mellifera), serotonin has been implicated in division of labor, visual processing, and learning processes. Here, we present the cloning, heterologous expression, and detailed functional and pharmacological characterization of two honeybee 5-HT2 receptors.

Methods

Honeybee 5-HT2 receptor cDNAs were amplified from brain cDNA. Recombinant cell lines were established constitutively expressing receptor variants. Pharmacological properties of the receptors were investigated by Ca(2+) imaging experiments. Quantitative PCR was applied to explore the expression patterns of receptor mRNAs.

Results

The honeybee

SUBMITTER: Thamm M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3855752 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature