People on the autism spectrum have lower levels of a protein that regulates serotonin in the brain.
A new study describes the role serotonin plays in brain development.
Serotonin can chemically attach to histone proteins in the cell nucleus to help regulate gene expression. The findings may provide a better understanding of an array of psychological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.
Somatic awareness, a condition previously believed to be of psychological origin, is connected to a common genetic variant. The mutation leads to the malfunctioning of an enzyme critical for serotonin production.
Researchers report LSD triggers a reduction in functional connection between areas of the brain that govern cognitive processes, while increasing connectivity in brain networks associated with sensory functions.
Researchers look at how sensory organs in the skin work, The findings may help solve certain sensory pain disorders.
Metformin, a common diabetes medication, shows promise for the treatment of anxiety and depression.
A new study in mice reveals a possible link between the use of SSRI antidepressants during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism-like symptoms in offspring. Offspring exposed to fluoxetine (Prozac) in utero were more likely to exhibit impaired neurotransmission caused by an overactive serotonin receptor in the prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain implicated in modulating social behaviors. However, treating the mice with a compound that blocks the receptor alleviated the behavioral problems and improved working memory.
Serotonin produced by the raphe is critical for sleep in both mice and zebrafish. The firing of neurons in the raphe and the release of serotonin may help the brain build up better sleep pressure. The results may explain why some sleep-related side effects of antidepressants increase serotonin in the brain.
A new study implicates serotonin neurons in the nucleus accumbens with social behavior in mouse models of ASD. When serotonin release was triggered, researchers noted social behaviors normalized.
Researchers have identified two groups of serotonin neurons that may help to suppress aggression in mice.
Serotonin and arginine-vasopressin act in opposite ways in males and females to influence aggression and dominance, researchers report.
