Review of Metabolism, Transport and Role of Serotonin in the Body and the Relation between Serotonin and Diseases

Serotonin (5-hydroxytriptamine), one of the most important neurotransmitters, is synthesized from amino acid L-tryptophan in some neurons located in the central nervous system and intestine enterochromaffin cells . The role of this neurotransmitter is important and involves control of sexual behaviors, morality, sleep, pain, appetite, aggression, cardiovascular function and regulation of gut function. Serotonin is stored in cells by serotonin transporter; and after release, it binds to its specific receptors so as to perform its function, which is neuronal stimulation. There is a relationship between serotonin concentration changes, serotonin transporter gene alleles, and serotonin receptors and some diseases; consequently, using some drugs which are effective on these factors could be useful in the treatment of these diseases.