Fig. (3).

Serotonin 1A (5-HT_1A) receptors on astrocytes as a novel target of neuroprotection. Stimulation of 5-HT_1A receptors on astrocytes promotes S100β secretion followed by astrocyte proliferation and Nrf2 activation to up-regulate expression of antioxidative molecules, such as glutathione (GSH) and metallothionein (MT). Therefore, the strategy of increasing the number of intrinsically healthy astrocytes through stimulation of 5-HT_1A receptors on astrocytes is conceivable and could help design new therapies that provide neuroprotection against oxidative stress and neurodegenerative disorders.