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Published on: March 16, 2017
Serotonin in the gastrointestinal tract
1Clinical Enteric Neuroscience Translational and Epidemiological Research (CENTER), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA. camilleri.michael@mayo.edu
Current Opinion in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Obesity
|January 1, 2009
Summary
Serotonin plays a key role in functional gastrointestinal disorders. Serotonergic agents effectively treat chronic constipation, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome, with ongoing research into genetic influences.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Neurogastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) is a critical neurotransmitter influencing gastrointestinal (GI) function.
- Dysregulation of serotonin signaling is implicated in the pathophysiology of lower functional gastrointestinal disorders (LFGDs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of serotonin and its modulation in the development and management of LFGDs.
- To explore novel concepts linking serotonin to LFGD symptoms and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on serotonin and LFGDs.
- Analysis of findings related to serotonin levels, genetic factors (e.g., 5-HTTLPR), and therapeutic agents.
Main Results:
- Elevated plasma 5-HT in diarrheal disorders and reduced levels in constipation are consistent findings.
- The serotonin transporter influences circulating 5-HT levels.
- The 5-HTTLPR genotype shows no significant association with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in major ethnic groups.
- Novel 5-HT3 antagonists and 5-HT4 agonists demonstrate efficacy in treating LFGDs.
Conclusions:
- Serotonergic agents are clinically effective for chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea, and IBS.
- Ongoing research into the genetic control of serotonin and its receptors promises to deepen the understanding of LFGD mechanisms and treatments.
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