Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 21, 2026
08:29
Biomarkers in an Animal Model for Revealing Neural, Hematologic, and Behavioral Correlates of PTSD
Published on: October 10, 2012
Neurotransmitter alterations in PTSD: catecholamines and serotonin
S M Southwick1, S Paige, C A Morgan
1Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
Seminars in Clinical Neuropsychiatry
|November 11, 1999
Summary
Neurotransmitter imbalances in epinephrine (E), norepinephrine (NE), and serotonin (5-HT) are linked to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These alterations may explain common PTSD symptoms like hypervigilance and irritability.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Central catecholamine neurons (epinephrine, norepinephrine) are vital for alertness, attention, memory, and fear responses.
- Serotonin (5-HT) regulates numerous CNS functions including sleep, mood, anxiety, and cardiovascular activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review trauma-related studies on epinephrine (E), norepinephrine (NE), and serotonin (5-HT).
- To examine evidence of catecholamine and serotonergic dysregulation in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on trauma, neurotransmitters, and PTSD.
- Analysis of evidence for catecholamine dysregulation (e.g., heart rate, blood pressure, receptor number).
- Analysis of evidence for serotonergic dysregulation (e.g., aggression, mood, receptor binding).
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests catecholamine dysregulation in PTSD, indicated by exaggerated physiological responses and altered brain metabolism.
- Evidence indicates serotonergic dysregulation in PTSD, shown by mood/behavioral symptoms and altered neuroendocrine responses.
- Alterations in NE, E, and 5-HT may correlate with PTSD symptoms like hypervigilance, irritability, and impulsivity.
Conclusions:
- Dysregulation of epinephrine, norepinephrine, and serotonin is implicated in the pathophysiology of PTSD.
- Understanding these neurotransmitter alterations offers insights into PTSD symptoms and potential therapeutic targets.
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