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Updated: Feb 8, 2026
07:48
Working with Human Tissues for Translational Cancer Research
Published on: November 26, 2015
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Serotonin and human cancer: A critical view
Denis Sarrouilhe1, Marc Mesnil2
1Laboratoire de Physiologie Humaine, Faculté de Médecine et Pharmacie, Université de Poitiers, 6 rue de la Milétrie, Bât D1, TSA 51115, 86073, Poitiers, Cedex 9, France.
Biochimie
|June 25, 2018
Summary
Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, acts as a growth factor in various human cancers, influencing tumor progression and metastasis. Targeting serotonin pathways offers potential new cancer treatments.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Serotonin traditionally functions as a neurotransmitter, local mediator, and vasoactive agent.
- Emerging evidence highlights serotonin's role as a growth factor in diverse human tumors, including carcinomas, glioma, and carcinoids.
- Serotonin influences critical cancer processes like cell migration, metastatic spread, and tumor angiogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review the multifaceted involvement of serotonin in human cancer progression.
- To elucidate the complex signaling pathways by which serotonin promotes tumor growth.
- To discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting serotonin pathways in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and critical analysis of existing studies on serotonin and cancer.
- Examination of data on serotonin levels, receptor expression, and autocrine loops in tumors.
- Discussion of chemotherapeutic targets within serotonin synthesis and signaling pathways.
Main Results:
- Serotonin levels within tumors significantly correlate with cancer progression.
- Neuroendocrine cells contribute to serotonin production and secretion in solid tumors, suggesting autocrine loops.
- Dysregulated expression of specific serotonin receptor subtypes is observed in human tumors compared to normal tissues.
Conclusions:
- Serotonin plays a pivotal role in driving human cancer progression through complex signaling pathways.
- Targeting serotonin receptors, transporters, and synthesis pathways presents a promising avenue for novel cancer chemotherapeutics.
- Further research into serotonin's role is crucial for developing effective treatments for cancers with limited therapeutic options.
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