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Gastrointestinal Motility Monitor (GIMM)
Published on: December 1, 2010
5-Hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) in the gastrointestinal tract
1Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA. mdg4@columbia.edu
Current Opinion in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Obesity
|December 11, 2012
Summary
Emerging research reveals gut 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is a key regulator of gastrointestinal function, inflammation, and tissue regeneration, acting as a neurotransmitter, hormone, and growth factor.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
Background:
- The gut hosts the majority of the body's 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), also known as serotonin.
- Historically, gut 5-HT was primarily linked to peristaltic reflexes initiated by enteroendocrine cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and highlight recent discoveries regarding the multifaceted functions of gut 5-HT.
- To emphasize the emerging understanding of 5-HT's roles beyond classical gastrointestinal reflexes.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of studies involving genetically modified mice lacking 5-HT in specific cell types (enterochromaffin cells via TPH1KO, neurons via TPH2KO).
- Examination of the impact of serotonin transporter deletion on intestinal inflammation.
Main Results:
- Neuronal 5-HT appears more critical for normal gastrointestinal transit than enteroendocrine cell 5-HT.
- Enteroendocrine cell-derived 5-HT plays a vital role in the inflammatory response and acts as a hormone influencing bone and liver.
- Neuronal 5-HT supports mucosal health and neurogenesis.
Conclusions:
- Gut 5-HT is a versatile signaling molecule with diverse roles in both developing and adult animals.
- 5-HT functions as a neurotransmitter, paracrine factor, endocrine hormone, and growth factor within the gastrointestinal system.
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