serotonin

American  

[ser-uh-toh-nin, seer-] / ˌsɛr əˈtoʊ nɪn, ˌsɪər- /

noun

Biochemistry.

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

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serotonin British  

/ 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)

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serotonin Scientific  

/ 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.

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Etymology

Origin of serotonin

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

Compare meaning

How does serotonin compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• dopamine vs. serotonin

Example Sentences

In some cases, supplements contained several times the stated dose or unexpected compounds such as serotonin.

From Science Daily

However, scientists believe that conditions inside the intestine, including the gut microbiota and the chemical messenger serotonin, play an important role.

From Science Daily

Many mood disorders and neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, are linked to disruptions in serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood and other brain functions.

From Science Daily

Scientists have identified at least 14 different receptors that respond to the neurotransmitter serotonin.

From Science Daily

Actually winning releases serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with stabilized mood and feelings of calmness.

From The Wall Street Journal