Dictionary of Biological Psychology
Serotonin or 5-hydroxytryptamine is a BIOGENIC AMINE neurotransmitter (see NEUROTRANSMITTERS). Systems OF Cells containing serotonin are said to be SEROTONERGIC (or occasionally, serotoninergic). An INDOLEAMINE, serotonin is synthesized from TRYPTOPHAN, an essential dietary requirement.
It is also present in various organ systems in the body, and released by platelets during blood clotting. Serotonin is localized in distinct cell groups in the BRAINSTEM, designated as B1-B9 (see CLASSIFICATION OF DAHLSTRÖM AND FUXE). Most of these cell groups are associated with the RAPHE NUCLEI, including the DORSAL RAPHE NUCLEUS and NUCLEUS RAPHE MAGNUS. Serotonergic neurons innervate virtually all regions of the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM, including the SPINAL CORD. Serotonin is thought to be involved in SLEEP and AROUSAL and the modulation of basic motor and sensory processes.
KAZUE SEMBA
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