Structure of the mouse 5-HT1C, 5-HT2 and stomach fundus serotonin receptor genes.

By analysis of the mouse 5-HT1C receptor gene we found that its coding region contains three introns. We next isolated cDNA and genomic clones for the closely related 5-HT2 receptor using a probe derived from the 5-HT1C receptor sequence. This probe also hybridized to an additional gene, called SRL (Serotonin Receptor Like). We have evidence demonstrating that it encodes the stomach fundus 5-HT receptor. Two introns are present within the coding regions of the mouse 5-HT2 receptor gene and the SRL gene at positions which correspond to those of introns in the 5-HT1C receptor gene. This intron distribution is unique and distinguishes these receptors from other members of the family of receptors coupled to G-proteins.