Binding of [H-3]lysergic acid diethylamide to serotonin 5-HT2A receptors and of [H-3]paroxetine to serotonin uptake sites in platelets from healthy children, adolescents and adults

Possible age effects on binding of [H-3]lysergic acid diethylamide ([H-3]LS D) to serotonin 5-HT2A receptors and of [H-3]paroxetine to serotonin uptake sites were studied in platelets from healthy children (11-12 years of age) , adolescents (16-17 years of age) and adults. Significant overall age effe cts were found both for the number of binding sites (B-max) for [H-3]LSD bi nding (p < 0.001), the affinity constant (K-d) for [H-3]LSD binding (p < 0. 001), B-max for [H-3]paroxetine binding (p < 0.001) and K-d for [H-3] parox etine binding (p = 0.006). In general, there was a decrease in B-max with i ncreasing age, which predominantly occurred between the ages 11-12 years an d 16-17 years for the 5-HT2A receptor, and after 16-17 years of age for the serotonin uptake site. These developmental changes might have an impact on the effect of treatment with serotonergic drugs in children and adolescent s. When the platelet serotonin variables investigated are employed in studi es in children or adolescents, age matching or, alternatively, introduction of age control in the statistical analysis should be performed.