Chemical (5-hydroxytryptamine, or 5-HT) derived from the amino acid tryptophan. It occurs in brain and intestinal tissue, platelets, and certain connective-tissue cells and is a component of many animal venoms (e.g., wasp, toad).
A strong stimulator of blood-vessel constriction and a neurotransmitter, serotonin concentrates in certain brain areas, especially the midbrain and hypothalamus. Some cases of depression are apparently caused by reduced amounts or activity of serotonin in the brain; many antidepressants counteract that condition. Excessive brain serotonin activity may cause migraine headaches and nausea. LSD may act by inhibiting the action of serotonin.
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