serotonin

[ ser-uh-toh-nin, seer- ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. a neurotransmitter, derived from tryptophan, that is involved in sleep, depression, memory, and other neurological processes.

serotonin

/ ˌsɛrəˈtəʊnɪn /

noun

1. a compound that occurs in the brain, intestines, and blood platelets and acts as a neurotransmitter, as well as inducing vasoconstriction and contraction of smooth muscle; 5-hydroxytryptamine (5HT)

serotonin

/ sĕr′ə-tō′nĭn,sîr′- /

1. A monoamine substance that is formed from tryptophan and found in many animal tissues, including the intestine and central nervous system. In the brain, serotonin acts as a neurotransmitter that is involved in the control of pain perception, the sleep-wake cycle, and mood. Serotonin is also produced in some bacteria and plants.

Word History and Origins

Origin of serotonin¹

First recorded in 1945–50; sero- + tone + -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of serotonin¹

from sero- + ton ( ic ) + -in

Example Sentences

The research, published on-line November 25, 2024 in Nature, demonstrates for the first time exactly how dopamine and serotonin work together -- or more precisely, in opposition -- to shape our behavior.

From Science Daily

"In addition to their involvement in our everyday behavior, dopamine and serotonin are implicated in a wide variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders: addiction, autism, depression, schizophrenia, Parkinson's and more," said study senior author Robert Malenka, the Pritzker Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford.

From Science Daily

The theory: dopamine and serotonin are both important for shaping behavior -- but how?

From Science Daily

Research has long shown that dopamine and serotonin play crucial roles in learning and decision-making across species.

From Science Daily

While dopamine is associated with reward prediction and seeking, serotonin seems to moderate these impulses and promote long-term thinking.

From Science Daily