Neurotransmitter Serotonin and its Role in Dementia
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, a chemical which sends messages from one synapse to another in the brain. Our bodies manufacture many different types of neurotransmitters, whose proper functioning make it possible for our brains to work, and therefore make it possible for us to live our lives.
Serotonin affects most of our brain cells, and plays a role in appetite, cognition, memory, mood, sexual urges and temperature regulation. It also affects our hearts and our muscles, and plays a part in the endocrine (hormonal) system.
The chemical name for serotonin is 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT). It is found in the brain stem, and affects many brain functions. It affects the cardiovascular, immune, gastrointestinal and renal (kidney) systems. It stimulates muscles, and sends impulses between nerve cells.
Serotonin interacts with the neurotransmitters acetylcholine, dopamine, epinephrine (adrenaline), gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and norepinephrine (noradrenaline). Together these major players control most of our brain and bodily functions.
When they perform properly together and serotonin is doing an optimal job, we are relaxed, optimistic and serene. We experience an overall sense of well-being.
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Jody - Thank you for this comprehensive look at serotonin and the role it plays in our everyday lives and in dementia. This is important information for anyone concerned about strong personality changes in loved ones.
Take good care,
Pat
Hi Pat
Serotonin plays an astonishingly important role in so many ways. I learned more about it as I was doing the research on it.
The personality changes that can be caused by out-of-balance serotonin cause great distress for those who care about dementia victims. The more we can understand about what's going on, the better.
I'm glad you found the article helpful.