5-HT2C recombinant proteins and antibodies

The 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2C (5-HT2C) is a subtype of the serotonin (5-HT) receptor family, belonging to the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) class. It is predominantly expressed in the central nervous system, especially in the hypothalamus, hippocampus, and substantia nigra. Acting through the Gq/11 signaling pathway, 5-HT2C regulates neurotransmitter release and plays key roles in appetite control, mood regulation, reward mechanisms, and endocrine balance. Dysregulation of 5-HT2C function is closely associated with obesity, depression, anxiety, addiction, and schizophrenia, making it an important therapeutic target for central nervous system disorders.

In drug development, 5-HT2C agonists are actively explored for obesity and metabolic disorders. Lorcaserin, developed by Arena Pharmaceuticals, was the first FDA-approved 5-HT2C-selective agonist for weight loss, acting by suppressing appetite via receptor activation, though later withdrawn for safety reasons. Currently, companies are pursuing next-generation selective or biased 5-HT2C modulators to improve efficacy while minimizing 5-HT2B-mediated cardiac risks.

Viking Therapeutics and Novo Nordisk are investigating metabolic strategies involving the 5-HT2C pathway; Sunovion and Neurocrine Biosciences are advancing compounds for psychiatric indications; while biotech innovators such as Atai Life Sciences and Delix Therapeutics are developing biased 5-HT2C agonists for depression and addiction. Overall, 5-HT2C stands out as a promising multi-functional target bridging metabolic and neuropsychiatric therapeutics, driving the next wave of CNS drug innovation.

To assist in the development of 5-HT2C-targeted drugs, DIMA BIOTECH can now provide full-length 5-HT2C recombinant membrane protein developed by its nanodisc membrane protein platform. 5-HT2C nanodisc is an optimal solution for screening small molecules targeting 5-HT2C with its natural structure. Furthermore, DIMA BIOTECH has also prepared a 5-HT2C single B cell seed library, from which lead antibody molecules can be obtained in as fast as 28 days.