Aripiprazole, sold under the brand names Abilify and Aristada among others, is an atypical antipsychotic. It is primarily used in the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Other uses include as an add-on treatment in major depressive disorder, tic disorders and irritability associated with autism. See also [1].
G-protein coupled receptor for 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) [1][2][3]. Also functions as a receptor for various drugs and psychoactive substances, including mescaline, psilocybin, 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOI) and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)[4]. Ligand binding causes a conformation change that triggers signaling via guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) and modulates the activity of down-stream effectors[4]. Beta-arrestin family members inhibit signaling via G proteins and mediate activation of alternative signaling pathways[4]. Signaling activates phospholipase C and a phosphatidylinositol-calcium second messenger system that modulates the activity of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and promotes the release of Ca(2+) ions from intracellular stores[3], [4]. Affects neural activity, perception, cognition and mood [5]. Plays a role in the regulation of behavior, including responses to anxiogenic situations and psychoactive substances.
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