Articles tagged with Serotonin
New research suggests that serotonin facilitates adaptation to environmental changes, which may indirectly impact mood. Serotonin-producing neurons exhibit a surprise spike in activity when rules are suddenly reversed, signaling altered circumstances.
Researchers at the University of Bonn have found evidence for a genetic link to social phobia, with a specific focus on the serotonin transporter gene SLC6A4. This gene plays a crucial role in suppressing feelings of anxiety and depressive moods, which are common symptoms of social phobia.
A new study in mice reveals that serotonin affects motivation, but only when animals are exploring their environment. Increasing serotonin levels transiently reduces locomotive speed, while long-term stimulation triggers a second effect leading to increased global activity.
Researchers at TSRI identified a brain hormone called FLP-7 that stimulates fat metabolism without affecting food intake. By studying roundworms and visualizing the hormone in living animals, they found a direct link between serotonin levels in the brain and FLP-7 production, which triggers fat burning in the gut.
Researchers discovered LSD alters perception by stimulating serotonin 2A receptors in the brain. This finding may lead to new courses of treatment for psychiatric disorders like depression, addictions, and phobias by enhancing personal relevance.
Scientists track movement of serotonin transporter proteins in cell membranes using 'single molecule microscopy' method. PIP2 binding is found to mediate stable oligomer formation of the transporter, with implications for psychostimulant effects.
Researchers at Tohoku University found that a mutant strain of fruit fly lacks the scribbler gene, rendering them unable to copulate. This impairment parallels the neural control of copulation in humans, where BMP signaling and serotonin regulation are crucial for sexual activity.
New research from the University of Exeter and University of Zaragoza found that gut microorganisms regulate serotonin levels through a protein called TLR2. This discovery may shed light on inflammatory bowel disease and other neurological conditions.
Researchers developed an imaging technique that creates a 3-D video of serotonin transport, mapping its activity across multiple brain regions. This tool could aid the research and development of antidepressants by analyzing how inhibitors like SSRIs work in different parts of the brain.
Scientists have discovered a new mechanism by which Merkel cells in the skin transmit sensory information to nerve endings, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treating conditions like diabetes, cancer treatment, and fibromyalgia. This understanding may also enable preventive care for these patients.
A new study from Michigan Medicine reveals that the brain chemical serotonin guides fruit flies' protein-rich food choices, which can affect their lifespan. The research found that blocking serotonin's reward system extended the flies' lifespan by nearly twice as long.
Scientists at UNC School of Medicine have mapped a serotonin-driven anxiety circuit that worsens fear and anxiety in SSRI patients. A new compound blocks this pathway, potentially eliminating the side effect.
Researchers identified a neural circuit that inhibits binge-like eating behavior in mice, suggesting a potential treatment for humans. A specific serotonin receptor, 2C, expressed by dopamine neurons, is crucial in suppressing binge eating.
A study by University of Wisconsin-Madison professor Laura Hernandez found that increased serotonin levels lead to increased calcium levels in dairy cows, which could help treat milk fever. However, this effect may also cause bone loss in lactating women who take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) while breastfeeding.
A new study found that viral infections during pregnancy can lead to abnormal fetal brain development, increasing the risk of conditions like autism and schizophrenia. By manipulating serotonin levels, researchers were able to normalize fetal forebrain development and reduce this risk.
Researchers found that serotonin shortens apnoeic events by interacting with the 5-HT3 receptor, which is highly expressed in healthy babies. This discovery may provide a new lead in understanding and treating SIDS and asphyxia., Serotonin's role in promoting inspiration and stopping apnea could be key to preventing these infant deaths.
A meta-analysis of 40 clinical trials found that combining omega-3 fish oils with antidepressants had a statistically significant effect on improving mood. Other supplements like methylfolate, Vitamin D, and SAMe also showed promise as mood-enhancing therapies when taken with antidepressants.
Researchers found that mice with autism-like genetic mutations had fewer neurons in the gut, slower gut movement, and poor gut lining. Increasing serotonin activity during development prevented these changes. The study suggests a shared underlying abnormality for some patients with autism and gastrointestinal problems.
Researchers elucidated the first ever computer simulation of a notoriously elusive serotonin receptor involved in fast signal transmission and various disorders. The discovery reveals how serotonin binds to the receptor, opening its ion channel's gate and transmitting electrical signals.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Liverpool analyzed data from 157 ecstasy users and 148 controls to examine the effect of ecstasy on the brain. The study found significant reductions in serotonin transport in ecstasy users, which may contribute to cognitive deficits and mood changes.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have discovered the precise structure of the serotonin transporter, a key player in regulating mood and behavior. This breakthrough provides a platform for designing new, more effective small molecule therapeutics to treat depression and anxiety.
A new study published in The BMJ found no evidence that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) increase the risk of cardiovascular conditions like heart attacks and strokes in people under 65. In fact, SSRIs may reduce the risk of heart attacks, particularly with fluoxetine use.
Researchers analyzed data from 238,963 patients with depression, finding no link between SSRIs and increased cardiovascular risk. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were associated with reduced heart attack risk, particularly with fluoxetine use.
A study in the American Journal of Pathology finds that serotonin deficiency is associated with worse rheumatoid arthritis (RA) symptoms and pathology in mice. Serotonin or its agonists can reduce RA effects, suggesting a new therapeutic target for this debilitating disease.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University created a complete model to describe serotonin's role in brain development and structure. The study supports the importance of serotonin for normal functioning of neurons, synapses, and networks in the cortex.
Researchers have successfully created human stem cell-derived serotonin neurons, a breakthrough that could lead to more effective drug treatments for depression and anxiety. The cells were generated using induced pluripotent stem cells from patients' skin cells.
A new study by Uppsala University researchers found that posttraumatic stress disorder is caused by an imbalance between two neurochemical signalling systems: serotonin and substance P. The severity of symptoms depends on the degree of imbalance, not just one system.
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center found that neighboring serotonin-producing brainstem regions exert different and sometimes opposing effects on behavior. Alterations in serotonergic neuronal activity in the DRN and MRN produce markedly different behavioral consequences, leading to an imbalance between DRN and MRN activ...
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have found a genetic mutation that renders carriers susceptible to impulsive and reckless behavior when drunk. The study, led by Dr. Roope Tikkanen, discovered a point mutation in the serotonin 2B receptor gene associated with increased impulsivity, particularly in response to alcohol consumption.
Scientists have characterized six major molecular subtypes of serotonergic neurons in mice, revealing distinct expression patterns of hundreds of genes. These subtypes modulate different behaviors and vary in developmental lineage, anatomical distribution, and electrical firing properties.
A new study in Biological Psychiatry finds that hormonal treatments for sex reassignment alter brain chemistry, increasing serotonin levels in female-to-male transsexuals and decreasing them in male-to-female transsexuals. These changes may explain why testosterone improves symptoms in some forms of depression.
Researchers discovered that chronic stress strengthens traumatic memories in the brain, leading to PTSD. Blocking this process with serotonin-blocking drugs may offer a new treatment option for the disorder.
A recent study published in Journal of Psychopharmacology suggests that what was previously grouped as anxiety disorders may not be homogeneous in terms of the functioning of the serotonergic system. The researchers found that acute tryptophan depletion caused worsening symptoms in patients with anxiety disorders more related to fear, ...
Researchers discovered that combining Roux-en-Y gastric bypass with specific medication can augment weight loss benefits. The study found independent pathways contributing to weight loss, suggesting potential for combination treatment.
Research at Uppsala University reveals individuals with social phobia produce too much serotonin, leading to increased anxiety in social situations. The study used PET cameras and tracers to measure serotonin transmission by the brain's fear centre, finding a direct link between excessive serotonin production and social anxiety.
Researchers have localized the seasonal light cycle effects that drive SAD to a small region in the mid-brain called the dorsal raphe nucleus. The study found that serotonergic neurons fire faster in mice exposed to summer-like light cycles, leading to increased levels of serotonin and norepinephrine.
A leading psychiatrist argues that depression is not caused by low serotonin levels and that effective treatments do not raise these levels. The serotonin reuptake inhibiting drug class, popularized in the late 1980s, was marketed despite lacking evidence of its effectiveness.
Researchers at Caltech discovered that certain bacteria in the gut are essential for producing peripheral serotonin. The study found that mice with normal gut microbes had higher levels of serotonin than those without, and that specific species of bacteria elevated serotonin levels.
Researchers discovered an unconventional way serotonin is released from neurons, which could play a key role in antidepressant drug mechanism. The study suggests that the firing of serotonergic neurons is initially suppressed by extracellular serotonin.
Research suggests that early life stress can lead to an excess release of serotonin, resulting in a deficit. This could explain why many people with depression and anxiety disorders don't respond well to SSRIs, which aim to increase serotonin levels.
Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D can regulate brain serotonin production, influencing behavior and psychiatric disorders. Serotonin affects cognitive functions and behaviors, with low levels linked to conditions such as autism and ADHD.
A new study found that serotonin-deficient mice are more vulnerable to social stress and do not respond to the antidepressant Prozac, which may help explain why some people with depression seem unresponsive to treatment. The researchers also discovered a possible therapeutic strategy by targeting the lateral habenula brain area.
A study published in Current Biology found a causal link between serotonin neuron activation and patient behavior in mice, contradicting the notion that increased serotonin leads to reward. Researchers used optogenetics to activate serotonin neurons, observing longer waiting durations in mice with stronger activation.
Researchers discovered that trauma-related cues from infancy can lower depressive-like behavior in adults, contrary to previous expectations. The study found that these cues altered the brain's serotonin levels, leading to mood uplift and alleviating depression in grown rats.
A UCLA study found that early exposure to antidepressants can impact adult anxiety behavior, with Lexapro potentially altering serotonin neurotransmission and reducing anxiety in mice. The research highlights the need for safer antidepressant options during pregnancy.
Researchers identified nerve cells that produce serotonin, leading to gregarious behavior in locusts. Serotonin also plays a role in regulating mood and behavior in humans, with links to mental disorders like depression and anxiety.
Researchers explain how certain antidepressants, like SSRIs, can initially worsen symptoms by suppressing the release of neurotransmitter glutamate. This delay in effectiveness may be linked to the dual signal of serotonin and glutamate in brain neurons.
Researchers from McMaster University have identified a key hormone responsible for reduced brown fat activity in obese individuals, leading to increased risk of obesity and diabetes. Blocking the production of peripheral serotonin enhances brown fat activity, providing a potential new treatment approach.
Research shows that serotonin's early regulation is vital for brain circuit formation, particularly in inhibitory interneurons. Dysregulation of this system can lead to psychiatric problems, highlighting the importance of understanding its role in brain development.
Research from scientists at Washington University School of Medicine found that scratching causes the brain to release serotonin, which intensifies itch sensation. Blocking serotonin's communication with nerve cells may help break the itch-scratch cycle.
A longitudinal study found significant summer-to-winter differences in serotonin transporter (SERT) protein levels among Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) patients. Higher SERT activity led to lower serotonin levels, impacting mood regulation.
Researchers discovered that a single dose of antidepressant can dramatically change the human brain's functional architecture within three hours. The study found increased connectivity in two specific brain regions, while reducing intrinsic connectivity elsewhere.
A study found that daily sunshine hours before a suicide event were associated with reduced rates of suicide among women, while men showed an opposite correlation. The researchers also noted that long-term exposure to sunshine was linked to lower suicide rates in Austria between 1970 and 2010.
The serotonin transporter is a crucial pharmacological target of antidepressants, and mifepristone has been shown to inhibit its activity. The study demonstrates that mifepristone directly inhibits the serotonin transporter, suggesting its potential as a treatment for psychotic depression.
A new study published in ACS Chemical Neuroscience throws doubt on the notion that serotonin deficiency is key to depression. Despite being 'depressed' due to a lack of serotonin production, mice lacked this ability showed no signs of depression-like symptoms.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine developed an estrogen-based compound that inhibits binge-like eating behavior in female mice. The study found that the compound, GLP-1-estrogen, works by delivering estrogen to specific brain regions where serotonin neurons are present, reducing binge eating.
Researchers at Champalimaud Foundation establish the effect of serotonin on sensitivity to pain, revealing a significant decrease in pain perception when serotonin is released. This breakthrough provides new insights into chronic pain treatment.
A new study by Duke University researchers found that small DNA modifications can affect the brain's threat response. The study focused on the serotonin transporter gene and found a strong link between methylation levels and amygdala reactivity, which may contribute to stress-related disorders.
Researchers at Weizmann Institute identify microRNA molecule miR135 linked to serotonin system and its role in depression and anxiety disorders. Higher levels of miR135 found in healthy mice resistant to chronic stress, while low levels associated with depressed behavior and weaker response to antidepressants.
The center will investigate mechanisms underlying addiction and discover new treatments, focusing on the serotonin system. It will prioritize individuals with impulsivity traits, which are associated with higher relapse rates.