The measured concentration of the monoamine neurotransmitter serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT) in the blood or cerebrospinal fluid, reflecting its availability and activity within the central nervous system and peripheral tissues. Serotonin is integral to regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and gut motility, with imbalances frequently linked to clinical conditions such as depression, anxiety, and digestive disorders. Fluctuations in hormonal status, particularly estrogen, can directly impact the synthesis and receptor sensitivity of serotonin.
Origin
Serotonin was first isolated in the 1940s from blood serum, hence its name, combining serum and tonin (referring to its vasoconstrictor properties). Its role as a key neurotransmitter in the brain was established later, becoming a central focus in psychoneuroendocrinology.
Mechanism
Serotonin is synthesized from the essential amino acid tryptophan and acts by binding to a wide array of specific receptors (5-HT receptors) distributed throughout the brain and body. Adequate levels are necessary to maintain balanced mood and healthy sleep-wake cycles. Estrogen, a key female hormone, is known to increase serotonin synthesis and the number of 5-HT receptors, demonstrating a direct hormonal influence on serotonin levels and subsequent emotional well-being.
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