Serotonergic receptor binding in the brainstem in the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome in a high-risk population.

ABSTRACT: The Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is a major global health problem, with increased risk among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. We propose SIDS, or a subset, is due to a defect in the brainstem serotonin system mediating cardiorespiratory integration and arousal. This defect impinges on homeostasis during a critical developmental period in infancy, especially in populations experiencing maternal and infantile stress, resulting in sleep-related sudden death. In the socially disadvantaged cohort of the prospective Safe Passage Study from Cape Town, South Africa, and the Northern Plains of the United States, we tested the hypothesis that: 1) serotonin (5-HT) receptor 1A binding is reduced within the brainstem of SIDS infants compared to controls; and 2) reduced 5-HT1A binding

SUBMITTER: Kinney HC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12422518 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature