Reduction in serotonin 5HT2 receptor binding on platelets of delinquent adolescents.

The possible involvement of serotonin receptors of the 5HT2 type in aggressive behavior was studied in juvenile delinquents. A group of 28 delinquent adolescents (13-18 years old) who had committed violent crimes was compared with a group of age matched controls. Subjects were drug and medication free during the study.

Age-related changes in serotonin 5HT2 receptors on human blood platelets.

Serotonin receptors of the 5HT2 type were labeled on platelet membranes using tritiated ketanserin. Blood was collected from the umbilical cord of newborns and venous samples were collected from 6-year-old children as well as junior-high and high school students (ages 13 through 18) to determine age-related changes in receptor binding. Among the ages sampled, the highest levels of 5HT2 receptor binding were found in 6-year-olds.