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Genetic and early environmental influences on the serotonin system: consequences for brain development and risk for psychopathology.
- Source :
-
Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience . Jan2015, Vol. 40 Issue 1, p5-18. 14p. 1 Color Photograph, 1 Illustration, 2 Diagrams, 1 Chart. - Publication Year :
- 2015
-
Abstract
- Background: Despite more than 60 years of research in the role of serotonin (5-HT) in psychopathology, many questions still remain. From a developmental perspective, studies have provided more insight into how 5-HT dysfunctions acquired in utero or early in life may modulate brain development. This paper discusses the relevance of the developmental role of 5-HT for the understanding of psychopathology. We review developmental milestones of the 5-HT system, how genetic and environmental 5-HT disturbances could affect brain development and the potential role of DNA methylation in 5-HT genes for brain development. Methods: Studies were identified using common databases (e.g., PubMed, Google Scholar) and reference lists. Results: Despite the widely supported view that the 5-HT system matures in early life, different 5-HT receptors, proteins and enzymes have different developmental patterns, and development is brain region-specific. A disruption in 5-HT homeostasis during development may lead to structural and functional changes in brain circuits that modulate emotional stress responses, including subcortical limbic and (pre)frontal areas. This may result in a predisposition to psychopathology. DNA methylation might be one of the underlying physiologic mechanisms. Limitations: There is a need for prospective studies. The impact of stressors during adolescence on the 5-HT system is understudied. Questions regarding efficacy of drugs acting on 5-HT still remain. Conclusion: A multidisciplinary and longitudinal approach in designing studies on the role of 5-HT in psychopathology might help to bring us closer to the understanding of the role of 5-HT in psychopathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 11804882
- Volume :
- 40
- Issue :
- 1
- Database :
- Academic Search Index
- Journal :
- Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 100314428
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1503/jpn.140099