Biologically Active Substance
serotonin Audio
ser·o·to·nin [ ser-uh-toh-nin, seer- ]
More Information:
ChemID; DrugBank; DailyMed; PDR
Definitions related to serotonin:
  • A biochemical messenger and regulator, synthesized from the essential amino acid L-TRYPTOPHAN. In humans it is found primarily in the central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and blood platelets. Serotonin mediates several important physiological functions including neurotransmission, gastrointestinal motility, hemostasis, and cardiovascular integrity. Multiple receptor families (RECEPTORS, SEROTONIN) explain the broad physiological actions and distribution of this biochemical mediator.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2021
  • A hormone found in the brain, platelets, digestive tract, and pineal gland. It acts both as a neurotransmitter (a substance that nerves use to send messages to one another) and a vasoconstrictor (a substance that causes blood vessels to narrow). A lack of 5-hydroxytryptamine in the brain is thought to be a cause of depression.
    NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • A neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep and appetite, mediate moods, and inhibit pain.
    Harvard Dictionary of Health Terms
    Harvard Medical Publishing, 2011
  • Biochemical messenger and regulator, synthesized from tryptophan; in humans it is found primarily in the central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and blood platelets.
    CRISP Thesaurus
    National Institutes of Health, 2006
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