A potential new class of fast-acting antidepressant
Researchers have found a potential new class of fast-acting antidepressants that could alleviate symptoms in as little as five days, offering a safer alternative to existing treatments.
Serotonin
Articles tagged with Serotonin
Life Sciences
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
447,757
articles
2542
topics
Health and Medicine
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
431,843
articles
751
topics
Social Sciences
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
260,756
articles
745
topics
Physical Sciences
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
257,913
articles
1552
topics
Applied Sciences and Engineering
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
225,386
articles
998
topics
Scientific Community
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
193,043
articles
157
topics
Space Sciences
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
29,662
articles
175
topics
Research Methods
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
21,889
articles
139
topics
Mathematics
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
3,023
articles
113
topics
Birth gets the brain ready to sense the world
A study published in Developmental Cell reveals that birth in mice causes a reduction in serotonin levels, triggering the formation of neural circuits in sensory maps. This finding suggests that birth plays an active role in preparing the newborn for survival outside the womb.
Eat more, weigh less: Worm study provides clues to better fat-loss therapies for humans
Researchers found a brain-to-body signaling circuit in roundworms that enables weight loss independently of food intake, involving serotonin and octopamine neurotransmitters. The discovery hints at a similar circuit in humans and other mammals, potentially leading to more potent weight-loss therapies combining serotonin and adrenaline.
Short-term smoking cessation reverses endothelial damage
A study found that short-term smoking cessation improves arterial function and reduces the risk of heart attacks, but doesn't immediately lower serotonin levels. However, longer-term smoking cessation may be needed to completely reverse the damage caused by smoking.
Compound enhances SSRI antidepressant's effects in mice
A synthetic compound has been discovered to enhance the effects of SSRIs, a commonly prescribed antidepressant. By blocking secondary 'vacuum cleaners' in the brain, the compound increases serotonin levels, offering new potential targets for treating depression. Researchers hope this discovery will lead to more effective treatments.
Pain, pain, go away
Researchers at UTMB are using gene therapy to target the serotonin 2C receptor in the amygdala to prevent abnormal pain generation and treatment resistance. They aim to develop a permanent solution to neuropathic pain, which affects millions of Americans.
Serotonin mediates exercise-induced generation of new neurons
Researchers found that mice with functional serotonin produce more of this hormone during exercise, increasing cell proliferation in the hippocampus. Serotonin is essential for exercise-induced neurogenesis, while baseline neurogenesis occurs without it.
SSRIs in perioperative period associated with higher risk for adverse events
Patients receiving SSRIs before surgery had higher odds of in-hospital mortality and bleeding events. The study, which included over 530,000 patients, suggests that patient factors or SSRIs themselves may be responsible for the increased risks.
University of Maryland School of Medicine finds depression stems from miscommunication between brain cells
A new study challenges the long-held explanation that depression is caused by insufficient serotonin levels. Instead, researchers found that abnormal communication between brain cells is the root cause of depression. This discovery opens possibilities for new therapies targeting excitatory connections rather than serotonin.
Why your brain tires when exercising
A new study published in PNAS reveals that excessive serotonin release triggers central fatigue, a condition where the brain and nervous system become exhausted during exercise. The findings may help develop better drugs for conditions like spasticity and cerebral palsy, as well as improve understanding of antidepressant side effects.
Rewiring the serotonin system
A team of researchers from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston and the University of Houston has found a new way to influence the vital serotonin signaling system. They have linked malfunctions in this system to various health issues, including depression, addictions, epilepsy, obesity, eating disorders, and more.
Threat bias interacts with combat, gene to boost PTSD risk
Researchers tracked 1085 male Israeli soldiers to identify predictors of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Soldiers with pre-deployment threat vigilance and an emotion-related gene were more likely to develop PTSD, with a faster reaction time indicating increased threat vigilance.
Childhood emotional abuse dramatically strong among male alcohol-dependent individuals
A study found a strong association between childhood emotional abuse and reduced serotonin neurotransmission in male alcohol-dependent individuals. The finding suggests that childhood trauma may contribute to the development of alcoholism by affecting brain chemistry.
Networking ability a family trait in monkeys
A study on rhesus macaques found that their social network behavior is influenced by genetics and heritability. Pro-social monkeys with strong networks had greater reproductive success, while aggression had a weaker link to heritability.
Use of anti-depressants during pregnancy not linked with increased risk of stillbirth, infant death
Researchers found no significant association between SSRI use during pregnancy and increased risk of stillbirth, neonatal death, or postneonatal death. However, women exposed to SSRIs had higher rates of stillbirth and postneonatal mortality due to underlying maternal psychiatric disease.
Wayne State researcher's take on brain chemical analysis featured
A Wayne State University researcher has developed a new method for analyzing brain chemicals using carbon fiber microelectrodes. The technique, which meets four key criteria of size, speed, selectivity and sensitivity, enables researchers to measure serotonin levels in mice with antidepressants within five minutes.
'Disgusted' rats teaching scientists about nausea, work may lead to new cancer treatments
Researchers found that serotonin release in the visceral insular cortex is responsible for nausea. This discovery may lead to better understanding and treatment of nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy.
Studies seek better understanding and treatment of depression
Studies investigate the connection between serotonin, BDNF, and TG2 in depression. High levels of TG2 may disrupt serotonin signaling, leading to depressive symptoms.
Probing the roots of depression by tracking serotonin regulation at a new level
Researchers track serotonin regulation at a new level of detail using tiny fluorescent beads, shedding light on the dynamics of neurotransmitter transport. The study reveals two distinct populations of serotonin transporters, controlled by different regulatory pathways.
Antidepressant use associated with increased mortality among critically ill patients?
A study found that critically ill patients taking antidepressants in ICU had higher mortality rates, with risk increasing by 73% compared to those not on the medication. The risk was highest among patients with acute coronary syndrome and those who had undergone cardiac surgery.
Evidence shows that anti-depressants likely do more harm than good, researchers find
Researchers found that anti-depressants have negative health effects on developmental problems in infants, sexual stimulation and function, digestive issues, and abnormal bleeding in elderly patients. The benefits of most anti-depressants compare poorly to the risks, including premature death in elderly patients.
Yeast cell reaction to Zoloft suggests alternative cause, drug target for depression
Researchers found that antidepressant Zoloft accumulates in yeast cells, inducing autophagy and causing membrane distortions. This response supports the idea that depression may be linked to diminished BDNF secretions and suggests alternative targets for next-generation antidepressants.
PTSD genes identified by UCLA study
Researchers have found that individuals with specific gene variants are more likely to develop PTSD symptoms after exposure to trauma. The study suggests a genetic link to PTSD, which could lead to new screening methods and targeted treatments.
Novel mouse model for autism yields clues to a 50-year-old mystery
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have created a mouse model that expresses a common genetic variation linked to autism, revealing exaggerated serotonin signaling and social behavior changes. The study suggests that developmental disruptions in serotonin levels may lead to long-lasting brain wiring changes.
Ecstasy drug produces lasting toxicity in the brain
Researchers at Vanderbilt University found that recreational Ecstasy use is associated with chronic changes in the human brain, leading to a lasting loss of serotonin. The study used PET imaging to examine brain regions and found increased levels of serotonin-2A receptors in users, correlated with higher lifetime use.
Benefits of nut consumption for people with abdominal obesity, high blood sugar, high blood pressure
Eating mixed nuts daily boosts serotonin levels in MetS patients, decreasing hunger and improving heart health. A 12-week nut-enriched diet showed significant biochemical effects, including reduced inflammation and cardiovascular risk factors.
Perinatal antidepressant stunts brain development in rats
A study funded by the NIH found that perinatal exposure to antidepressants in rats led to stunted brain growth, abnormal behavior, and miswired brain circuitry. The researchers discovered reduced neuronal density and faulty communication between the brain's hemispheres.
Combating mood disorders
A novel binding assay using mass spectrometry simplifies the search for SERT inhibitors, potentially improving treatment of depression and anxiety disorders. The technique avoids use of radiolabeled substances, offering a more efficient and cost-effective method.
Serotonin levels affect the brain's response to anger
Researchers found that low serotonin levels weaken communication between brain regions, making it harder to control angry feelings. Healthy volunteers' brains were scanned while viewing angry faces to understand the impact of serotonin on aggression.
The search for predictors of risk for PTSD
A study found a link between a serotonin transporter gene variant and PTSD risk, suggesting the gene may predict symptom development after trauma. The researchers also discovered that this gene is associated with depression following life stress, highlighting its potential role in mental health.
Researchers identify possible therapeutic target for depression and addiction
A research team found that blocking the p38α MAPK protein influences behavior, contributing to depression-like symptoms and risk for addiction. The study suggests a novel therapeutic target for promoting stress resilience in models of depression and addiction.
Signaling pathway reduces stress resilience in models of depression and addiction
Researchers found that activating p38alpha MAPK reduces stress resilience by decreasing serotonin levels in the brain. This leads to depression-like behaviors, social avoidance, and drug-seeking behavior. The study suggests a novel therapeutic target to promote stress resilience.
Researchers target, switch off serotonin-producing neurons in mice
Researchers have developed a toolkit to selectively silence serotonin-producing neurons in mice, revealing new insights into Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The study found that serotonergic neuron activity affects body temperature regulation and responses to carbon dioxide levels.
Researchers develop mouse with 'off switch' in key brain cell population
Scientists create genetically modified mice with a built-in 'off switch' for their serotonin-producing cells, which control breathing, temperature regulation, and mood. The discovery sheds light on sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and depressive disorders, two conditions linked to low serotonin levels.
Nursing home residents at heightened risk of falling in the days following
A new study found that nursing home residents have a fivefold increased risk of falling within two days of a new prescription for or an increased dose of non-SSRI antidepressants. The study suggests that staff should closely monitor these residents following a prescription change to prevent potential falls.
Exposure to anti-depressants in pregnancy may increase autism risk
A Kaiser Permanente study found that exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in early pregnancy may modestly increase the risk of autism spectrum disorders. Researchers reported a two-fold increased risk of ASD associated with maternal treatment with SSRI anti-depressants during the year before delivery.
USC research shows critical role of placenta in brain development
A groundbreaking study by USC researchers shows the human placenta synthesizes serotonin, providing a new source of this neurotransmitter to the fetal forebrain. This discovery has implications for treating health impacts such as cardiovascular disease and mental illness.
Serotonin: A critical chemical for human intimacy and romance
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry suggests that serotonin activity affects how people perceive intimate relationships. Healthy adults with lower serotonin levels rated couples as less intimate and romantic than those with normal serotonin activity.
Antidepressants linked to thicker arteries
A study of twin veterans found that antidepressant use is linked to thicker arteries, contributing to the risk of heart disease and stroke. The data suggests that antidepressants may combine with depression for a negative effect on blood vessels.
Prozac reorganizes brain plasticity
Research on Prozac reveals it can reorganize brain plasticity by altering neuronal cell activity and connections in the hippocampus. This changes may contribute to anxiety symptoms experienced by some patients.
Serotonin plays role in many autism cases, studies confirm
Researchers have found that increasing serotonin levels improves social behavior in mice with autism. A medication called buspirone was used to mimic the effects of serotonin, resulting in improved social interaction behaviors. Further study is planned to investigate the impact of a diet rich in tryptophan on social behavior.
New model for probing antidepressant actions
A new mouse model has been developed to study selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and their effects on the brain. The model shows that SSRIs target a specific protein in the brain, leading to improved treatment options for depression and potentially shedding light on addiction.
Protracted abstinence revisited
Researchers found that mice with chronic morphine exposure showed decreasing physical dependence during abstinence, but developed depressive-like symptoms. Treatment with antidepressant fluoxetine prevented these symptoms.
Link between depression and inflammatory response found in mice
Vanderbilt researchers found that pro-inflammatory cytokines can trigger despair-like behavior in mice, similar to human depression. They also discovered a mechanism by which inflammation enhances serotonin reuptake, potentially increasing the risk of mood and anxiety disorders.
Circuit regulating anti-diabetic actions of serotonin uncovered by UT Southwestern researchers
A circuit in the brain regulating serotonin-receptor signaling may explain anti-diabetic actions independent of body weight and feeding. Reactivating this receptor in specific neurons protects mice from insulin resistance and metabolic problems.
How does Prozac act? By acting on the microRNA
Researchers discovered Prozac's mechanism of action, revealing that it increases serotonin levels by releasing a signal molecule that reduces microRNA miR-16, unlocking expression of the serotonin transporter. This unlocks new 'source' of serotonin production in brain neurons, leading to antidepressant effects.
Economic status, genetics together influence psychopathic traits
Researchers found that children with a specific serotonin transporter gene variant are more likely to exhibit psychopathic traits if they grow up poor. These traits include lack of empathy, arrogance, and deceitfulness. The study suggests that socioeconomic environment influences the expression of this genetic trait.
Electrical activity in developing brain influences choice of neurotransmitter
Electrical activity in developing brain cells influences the choice of neurotransmitter, altering behavior. Researchers found that tweaking genetic signals can change an animal's behavior by changing the transmitters neurons make and use.
Gestational diabetes linked to serotonin and dietary protein
Researchers at UCSF have found a link between serotonin, a neurotransmitter, and gestational diabetes, suggesting that high protein diets may trigger the condition. The study's findings offer new insights into possible ways to reverse non-gestational diabetes and provide potential therapeutic solutions.
PTSD: The serotonin system influences vulnerability and treatment
A study found that patients with PTSD who carried a short allele of the serotonin transporter gene promoter responded more poorly to cognitive behavior therapy. The researchers suggest that genetic variation may influence treatment response, leading to potential modifications in treatment approaches.
Mayo Clinic discovers new genetic candidates for irritable bowel syndrome
The Mayo Clinic research team identified genetic variants in serotonin genes that impact IBS, suggesting a complex molecular mechanism involving multiple genes. The study found several previously unknown associations between IBS and serotonin-related SNPs, providing new insights into the condition.
SSRIs and cardiovascular health
Researchers found that SSRIs slowed platelet clumping in participants taking the medication to treat depression, suggesting a potential beneficial effect on cardiovascular health. The study's findings could indicate a lower risk of cardiovascular disease for people taking SSRIs to treat depression.
ADHD linked to interaction of genetics and psychology
A study found that children with ADHD exhibit more symptoms when they experience high levels of self-blame during inter-parental conflict, which is associated with genetic variations related to serotonin activity. The study suggests a synergistic effect between genetic and environmental factors in the development of ADHD.
Inhibiting serotonin in gut could cure osteoporosis
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found that inhibiting serotonin synthesis in the gut effectively cured osteoporosis in mice and rats. The compound, LP533401, prevents bone breakdown while building new bone, offering a potential treatment for millions of osteoporosis sufferers.
Melatonin precursor stimulates growth factor circuits in brain
Researchers discovered that N-acetylserotonin, a melatonin precursor, activates the same brain growth factor circuits as BDNF, potentially explaining its antidepressant activity. This finding suggests new targets for depression treatment and may also shed light on neurodegenerative diseases.
Low production of serotonin in the brainstem a likely cause for SIDS
A new study finds that infants who die from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) have lower levels of serotonin in their brainstem compared to those who die from other causes. This deficiency may impair the function of brainstem circuits, putting babies at risk for sudden death during sleep.
Lower levels of serotonin in brain tissue associated with SIDS
A study published in JAMA found lower levels of serotonin in brain tissue associated with an increased risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The research suggests that abnormalities in the serotonin system may play a role in SIDS, particularly in the brainstem region.
SIDS linked to low levels of serotonin
Researchers found serotonin levels were 26% lower in SIDS infants' brain tissue, suggesting reduced capacity to respond to breathing challenges. The findings provide important clues to the biological basis of SIDS and may lead to ways to identify high-risk infants.
European Research Council grant for neuroscience research
Zachary Mainen, coordinator of the Champalimaud Neuroscience Programme, receives €2.3M ERC grant to study serotonin's function in the brain and its impact on behaviours such as eating and sleeping. The grant aims to develop novel tools for making definitive tests of serotonin function.
Why some brains are more vulnerable to stress and resistant to antidepressants
Researchers identified a causal link between serotonin receptors and depression treatment resistance. Higher autoreceptor levels in the brain were associated with reduced stress resilience and decreased response to antidepressant medication.