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

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

We found other Instagram videos claiming sunbeds could reduce body weight and "increase serotonin levels" to treat mood disorders and depression.

From BBC

Researchers observed several potential benefits, including higher levels of serotonin and reductions in inflammation, cholesterol, and toxic secondary bile acids.

From Science Daily

As a result, tryptophan is redirected toward the kynurenic pathway, which produces neurotoxic compounds, while the production of protective neurotransmitters such as serotonin and melatonin declines.

From Science Daily