What Is the Function of Serotonin - Assignment Example

Psychology Assignment - Assignment What is the function of serotonin? Serotonin performs various functions in the human body but most studied are those related to brain activity. In the brain, it serves as a neurotransmitter and its action is mostly stimulatory. According to various research scientists, it is a molecule that elevates mood and enables an individual to go on with life in difficult times. This effect of serotonin is well known because any disturbance in the serotonin system can lead to depression, anxiety, panic attack, and other mental abnormalities.

Although, this effect is more pronounced in individuals with a history of depression. Conversely, if its deficiency can induce depression, its presence can reduce those symptoms. Therefore, serotonin can be used as an anti-depressant. Serotonin also plays a crucial role as a hormone. It is believed that it is associated with the embryonic development of the forebrain. Research on mice showed that gut serotonin regulates bone production by inhibiting osteoblastic activity. A reduction of gut serotonin level by 40% in osteoporotic mice resulted in complete healing of the bone.

This could indicate excessive suppression of osteoblasts, a possible adverse function of serotonin. How do drugs like Zoloft and Prozac affect Serotonin? The drugs such as Prozac and Zoloft are called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors or simply SSRIs. These drugs target the serotonin transporter present at the neuronal junctions or synapses. The function of these transporters is to reuptake the serotonin that was released as a result of neural depolarization after its function is no longer needed.

Inhibition of these transport channels reduces reuptake, enhancing the effect of serotonin by allowing it to bind receptors for a longer duration and thus generating a stronger stimulus. These drugs are used to treat patients with depression as it is believed that they are low in serotonin levels. Where is Serotonin synthesized in the body? Does serotonin synthesized in different parts of the body have different functions? Serotonin is synthesized at two major locations in the body. Serotonergic neurons in the central nervous system produce serotonin.

But this is not the only place for serotonin synthesis; some specialized cells in the gastrointestinal tract also secrete this molecule. Yes, serotonin has different functions depending on the site of its release. It serves as a neurotransmitter in specific neurons of the central nervous system. Its presence is associated with psychological feelings of happiness and well-being. It also takes part in the development of the cognitive functioning and emotional structure of any individual. On the other hand, serotonin released from the gut does not cross the blood-brain barrier and does not participate in any higher-level functions.

Gut serotonin has vasoconstriction properties and it is believed to be a regulator of bone remodeling. What is a vasoconstrictor? A vasoconstrictor is any substance or molecule that causes constriction of blood vessels or narrows their lumen. It basically increases the tone of a vessel by constricting the smooth muscle of that vessel, regulating the blood flow through it. Serotonin is a vasoconstrictor and was given this name because it was first found in serum and showed a property of vascular toning.