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Serotonin-estrogen interactions: What can we learn from pregnancy?
Andrée-Anne Hudon Thibeault1, J Thomas Sanderson2, Cathy Vaillancourt1
1INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, 531, boulevard des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 1B7, Canada; Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Well-Being, Health, Society and Environment (Cinbiose), Université du Québec à Montréal, C.P.8888, succ. Centre-Ville, Montréal, QC, H3C 3P8, Canada.
Biochimie
|April 5, 2019
Summary
Estrogen influences serotonin (5-HT) pathways, impacting women
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Reproductive Biology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Serotonin (5-HT) is implicated in depression, migraine, IBS, and eating disorders, diseases with higher prevalence in women.
- Estrogen levels affect the prevalence and symptoms of these 5-HT-linked diseases.
- Pregnancy involves unique placental 5-HT and estrogen synthesis, with disorders linked to altered levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific literature on the interplay between serotonin and estrogen in specific diseases.
- To explore the role of this relationship in pregnancy-specific disorders and complications.
- To hypothesize mechanisms underlying the estrogen-serotonin connection in health and disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific studies on 5-HT-linked diseases and estrogenic status.
- Analysis of sex-dimorphic prevalence and co-occurrence of these diseases.
- Examination of hormonal profiles during pregnancy and associated disorders.
Main Results:
- Women are more frequently affected by 5-HT-linked diseases, suggesting a role for sex hormones.
- Estrogens may protect against 5-HT-linked diseases by stimulating the serotonergic system.
- Pregnancy disorders show altered 5-HT and estrogen levels, indicating a disrupted balance.
Conclusions:
- Estrogen likely regulates the serotonergic system, offering protection against 5-HT-linked diseases.
- Serotonin may influence estrogen synthesis, suggesting a feedback loop crucial for homeostasis.
- Disruptions in the 5-HT-estrogen relationship can explain pregnancy pathologies and complications.
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