Increased Serotonin 5-HT2 Receptor Binding on Blood Platelets of Suicidal Men

In search of a physiological marker of depression & suicidal behavior, serotonin receptors of the 5-HT2 type were studied on platelet membranes from 19 control & 22 suicidal subjects. 5-HT2 receptor binding was assayed using tritiated ketanserin at 2 concentrations. Receptor binding in the suicidal subjects was significantly higher than controls at both concentrations, the mean difference being around 50%. Findings support the use of 5-HT2 receptors on platelets as a research & diagnostic tool.