Posted by Miguel (4.40.20.123) on September 12, 2000 at 19:18:22:
In Reply to: LSD vs psilocin posted by pinksharkmark on September 12, 2000 at 15:49:06:
Molecules are not usually engulfed by a receptor.
Receptor, according to composition, may accomodate
a variety of molecular shapes and sizes, i.e.:
Beta-pleaded sheet v. Alpha-helix protein configuration
ratio, as well as ionic/weak bonding of the protein
chain in the receptor. As you noted, in the LSD
molecule, the majority of the molecule, "North" of
the Indole ring will likely not sit/bind to the receptor.
At least I would imagine it wouldn't because of the
significant structural and size difference with
serotonin. That is probably why LSD is only a
partial agonist. Of course, receptor site
x-ray topography/mapping would be required to
be certain of such interaction. Now, a question
pops to mind: What would happen if nothing but
the indole ring was present? Would we get the same
response as with LSD, or Serotonin?
Note that one of the structures you shared with
us in your link seems to have a "skeletal" indole
ring. I do not recall which one specifically.
Miguel