Serotonin in the gastrointestinal tract.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose of review

To assess the role of serotonin and its control in the manifestations and treatment of lower functional gastrointestinal disorders.

Recent findings

Recent literature has explored several novel concepts in the association of serotonin and symptoms, alterations in tissue levels of serotonin and its reuptake protein, aspects of the genetic determinants of serotonergic function (particularly 5-HTTLPR) and its relationship to gastrointestinal motor and sensory functions, and novel serotonergic agents used in therapy of lower functional gastrointestinal disorders. The most consistent findings are the increase in plasma 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in diarrheal diseases and reduction in constipation. The serotonin transporter in platelets has an impact on the circul

SUBMITTER: Camilleri M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2694720 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature