What Is the Difference Between Dopamine & Serotonin?

Dopamine and serotonin are neurotransmitters or chemicals in the brain produced by neurons that carry message to other neurons. Neurons are specialized cells that process and transmit information.

Similarities between Dopamine and Serotonin

• Both neurotransmitters, strongly connected to mood and emotion, regulate appetite, sex, aggression and cognitive function, and are targeted in the treatment of mental illnesses, such as depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Origins of the neurotransmitters

• Serotonin is synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan, while dopamine is manufactured from L-dopa, which is produced by tyrosine.

Serotonin's Role

• Serotonin controls or influences many functions, including emotion, appetite and sensory perceptions. It also affects sleep, pain perception, body temperature, blood pressure and hormonal activity.

Dopamine's Role

• Dopamine has a role in movement, mood, motivation and pleasure. Decreased levels of dopamine are linked to Parkinson's disease, while increased levels are associated with schizophrenia.

Links between Dopamine and Serotonin

• Brain research has focused on these and other neurotransmitters especially in the areas of study regarding mental illness. By discovering more about how the neurotransmitters work, and especially how they interact, researchers have been able to develop new medications and treatments for various mental illnesses.