|  | Conditions Treatments | Depression

What Kind of Receptor Is Serotonin?

Serotonin is a chemical linked to several mental disorders, as well as temperature regulation and gastrointestinal issues. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter and hormone produced in the brain to help with synaptic function, along with dopamine and norepinephrine. While the chemical serotonin isn't a receptor, the 5-hydroytryptamine receptors are called serotonin receptors and are located in the brain.

  1. History

    • Serotonon was discovered in the 1940s, and by the 1950s, two distinct receptor sites were found in rat brains; more were found later. The purpose of the serotonin receptors is to moderate the amount of various neurotransmitters and hormones in the brain. These hormones and transmitters help to regulate many different body functions. The receptor's role in regulation was known in the 1970s, and research has continued through the decades.

    Mood Regulation

    • The serotonin receptors regulate the nuerotransmitters that regulate a variety of bodily functions. They are most known for their ability to regulate mood, such as aggression, anxiety and depression. Many antipsychotic and antidepression drugs focus on the serotonin receptors and the regulation of serotonin and other hormones. If there is not enough serotonin being produced, it can lead to mild depression.

    Other Functions

    • Serotonin has also been linked to hunger control, which is why many people on serotonin reuptake inhibitors experience weight loss. It also helps with memory, learning and cognition. This has to be taken into account when considering an antidepressant medication. The serotonin receptors continue to produce serotonin and other hormones at increased levels when on antidepressant medication.

    Illicit Drugs

    • While a low production of serotonin by the receptors can lead to depression, higher levels of serotonin can lead to feeling of euphoria. Opiates like heroin and oxycontin are designed to drastically increase the production of serotonin and other endorphines by the receptors. This can lead to serotonin syndrome, where the body's regulating mechanisms become erratic. If left untreated, this can lead to death.

Depression - Related Articles