Reagents and methods for the screening of compounds useful in the treatment of neurological diseases

Abstract

This invention relates to the gene sequence of a novel transcription factor specific for central 5-HT (serotonergic) neurons. The sequence and products are useful in screening methods for identifying and testing agonists and antagonists of seronergic activity.

1 . A method, comprising: 
 a) providing: 
 i) cells, and ii) an expression construct comprising SEQ ID NO:1; and  
   b) transfecting said cells with said expression construct so as to generate transfected cells.    
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising c) culturing said cells under conditions such that serotonin release is detected.  
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising c) culturing said cells under conditions such that seronergic receptor generation is detected.  
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising c) contacting said transfected cells with a test compound.