Serotonin is synthesized both in the central nervous system and in the periphery, where it exerts its physiological functions by activating serotonin receptors. Among these, the 5-HT7 receptor (5-HT7R) is the most recently discovered subtype, identified in 1993. Highly expressed in two main compartments—the central nervous system (CNS) and the gastrointestinal tract—the 5-HT7R is also present in immune cells and cardiovascular tissues. It plays a key role in regulating important pathophysiological processes and represents a promising target for the treatment of CNS disorders such as sleep disturbances, neuropathic pain, and neuropsychiatric diseases, as well as inflammatory and immune-mediated conditions and blood pressure dysregulation.

During the congress, we will bring together researchers from around the world, uniting leading teams working on the 5-HT7 receptor and encompassing a broad range of research fields—from chemistry and structural and cellular biology to preclinical and clinical studies. Five thematic sessions will be dedicated to these presentations, entitled as follows:

• Session 1: Serotonin: Multifaceted Roles in Central and Peripheral Systems
• Session 2: The 5-HT7 Receptor: A Key Player in Diverse Physiological Functions
• Session 3: The 5-HT7 Receptor in the Central Nervous System
• Session 4: Innovative Tools and Compounds for Modulating 5-HT7 Receptor Functions
• Session 5: Advanced Techniques and Models for 5-HT7 Receptor Research

Organized by the international research consortium i5-HT7Net, which brings together eight renowned scientists, and supported by Le Studium, the CBM and ICOA laboratories, the University of Orléans, and local hospital institutions (CHU and EPSM), this conference will offer an academic environment that fosters intellectual exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Located in the heart of the Loire Valley, in the historic city of Orléans, this edition will coincide with the Joan of Arc Festival, offering participants the opportunity to discover the city’s remarkable heritage.

This event will provide an inspiring setting to explore the future of 5-HT7R research and its role in pathophysiological functions. 

Organising Committee

Michael Bader, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) - DE
Andrzej Bojarski, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences (IF) - PL
Kara Margolis, NYU Pain Research Center (NYUPRC) - USA
Séverine Morisset-Lopez, Center for Molecular Biophysics (CBM) - FR
Finn Olav Levy, University of Oslo (UO) - NO
Raphaël Serreau, University hospital center of Orléans (CHU-EPSM) - FR
Franck Suzenet, Institute of Organic and Analytical chemistry (ICOA) - FR
Stéphanie Watts, Michigan State University (MSU) - USA