What do we know about serotonin?

Abstract

The present review focuses on what is known of basic serotonin physiology in the human body. Here, we describe serotonin biochemistry and metabolism and summarize the results of studies that have contributed significantly to our understanding of serotonin physiology. We report the well-established role of serotonin in cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and circulatory physiology. Emphasis is placed on the role of serotonin in peripheral physiological systems rather than in the central nervous system. A brief overview is provided on the emerging role of serotonin in novel areas such as bone pathways and glucose uptake. We also report a select few animal studies and animal models that have provided worthwhile contributions to the understanding of serotonin in human physiology. In addition, we summarize the results of large-scale genetic studies on serotonin and serotonin transporter genes, performed in relation to behavioral and mood disorders.

Homeostasis of glucose in the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum): the role of serotonin

“…The role of the 5-ht5A receptor was not evaluated in the present study, and therefore the possibility that it may at least partly mediate the hyperglycaemic action of 5-HT cannot be ruled out. Nevertheless, taking into account previously reported data in mammals (Hannon and Hoyer, 2008;Jonnakuty and Gragnoli, 2008), it can be concluded that this receptor is highly unlikely to play any role in the hyperglycaemic action of 5-HT.…”

Insm1 (IA-1) is an essential component of the regulatory network that specifies monoaminergic neuronal phenotypes in the vertebrate hindbrain

“…These cell populations are defined and distinguished by their neurotransmitter phenotype: serotonin and noradrenaline. Both monoamine transmitters have a wide range of complementary actions and are implicated in the pathophysiology of many common neurological and psychiatric disorders (Jonnakuty and Gragnoli, 2008;Paterson et al, 2006;Prince, 2008;Weinshenker, 2008).…”

Expression of serotonin, chromogranin-A, serotonin receptor-2B, tryptophan hydroxylase-1, and serotonin reuptake transporter in the intestine of dogs with chronic enteropathy

“…Serotonin is produced from tryptophan in a 2-step process, where hydroxylation mediated by THP-1 is the rate-limiting step. 26 To facilitate the actions of 5-HT, and prevent receptor desensitization, intestinal 5-HT transporter (SERT) causes rapid reuptake of 5-HT. Some prior publications have suggested that SERT is down-regulated in some inflammatory or diarrheal motility disorders.…”