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publication card logo imageNeurochemical Research
IF2023=3.7
Published date: 11/2023

HBK-15, a multimodal compound, showed an anxiolytic-like effect in rats

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The takeaway

HBK-15, a multimodal serotonergic compound, produced an anxiolytic-like effect in rats. Acting through a unique receptor profile, it may provide an alternative to benzodiazepines and SSRIs, which are often limited by slow onset or safety concerns.

The science

HBK-15, a multimodal compound targeting 5-HT1A, 5-HT7, D2, and α1-adrenergic receptors, was found not to significantly affect melatonin, adenosine, orexin, histamine, muscarinic, or GABA receptors. In the Vogel conflict test, a standard anxiety paradigm, HBK-15 increased punished drinking behavior without impacting basic motivation or pain sensitivity. Its anxiolytic effects are similar to those of diazepam but feature a more selective pharmacological profile, showing the typical inverted U-shaped dose-response curve common to many neuroactive agents.

Why it matters

By combining anxiolytic-like activity with fewer off-target effects, HBK-15 shows the therapeutic potential of multimodal compounds for generalized anxiety disorder and promotes further research into its mechanisms and long-term safety.

Orginal article

https://doi.org/10.1007/s11064-022-03802-x

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