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08:15
Gastrointestinal Motility Monitor (GIMM)
Published on: December 1, 2010
Serotonin and the GI tract.
1Division of Gastroenterology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA. whasler@umich.edu
Current Gastroenterology Reports
|September 22, 2009
Summary
Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) regulates gut functions. Dysregulation contributes to gastrointestinal disorders, but therapies targeting 5-HT receptors show promise despite potential side effects.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Neurogastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) is a key neurotransmitter in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
- Seven families of 5-HT receptors (5-HT(1)-5-HT(7)) are expressed on various GI cells, including enterocytes, neurons, and myocytes.
- Enterochromaffin cells release most 5-HT in response to physiological and pathological stimuli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted roles of serotonin in normal gastrointestinal physiology.
- To elucidate the contribution of serotonergic dysfunction to the pathophysiology of various GI disorders.
- To discuss the therapeutic strategies targeting the serotonergic system for managing GI conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on serotonin's role in the GI tract.
- Analysis of the involvement of 5-HT receptors in gut function and dysfunction.
- Examination of current and investigational therapies modulating serotonergic pathways.
Main Results:
- Serotonin controls normal gut motility, secretion, sensation, appetite, and cell growth.
- Altered serotonergic function is implicated in functional bowel disorders, inflammatory/infectious diseases, emesis, obesity, and cancer.
- Current 5-HT-targeting therapies (agonists, antagonists, reuptake inhibitors) are vital but associated with cardiopulmonary risks.
Conclusions:
- Serotonergic signaling is crucial for maintaining gastrointestinal homeostasis.
- Targeting 5-HT pathways offers therapeutic potential for a range of GI conditions.
- Development of novel agents with improved safety profiles is ongoing to mitigate treatment-related toxicity.
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