Provide a 3-5 sentence paraphrased summary of the assigned neurotransmitter purpose and function.

Provide a 3-5 sentence paraphrased summary of the assigned

neurotransmitter purpose and function.

Serotonin is known as the substance of wellbeing and happiness. It is a monoamine

neurotransmitter derived from amino acids (synthesized from Tryptophan), classified as

Indolamine (Dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine are catecholamines).

Neurotransmitters can either cause excitation or inhibition and Serotonin causes the

latter. Primarily found in the brainstem, Serotonin has several functions, but we will

focus on this neurotransmitter effect on the mood. It is found in GI cells, neurons and

platelets. It’s involved in many conditions, such as migraine, psychosis, GI disturbances

and sleep disorders. (Carhart-Harris & Nutt, 2017).

Link the assigned neurotransmitter to a psychiatric diagnosis or diagnoses.

1. Discuss associated symptoms of the selected diagnosis or diagnoses.

Determine if each symptom is related to an excess or deficiency in the

neurotransmitter.

Serotonin is implicated in a vast array of brain functions including sleep and wake cycle

(Circadian cycle), appetite, mood regulation, memory and learning, temperature control.

among others. Serotonin is stored in small vesicles within the nerve terminal. When a

serotonergic neuron is stimulated, serotonin is released into the synaptic cleft where it

binds to serotonin receptors on the postsynaptic neuron. Serotonin action is then

terminated via removal of its molecules from the synaptic space. This is accomplished

through a special protein called serotonin transporter (SERT). Low levels of serotonin in

the brain have been associated with depressive disorders and current treatments for

depression aim to increase those levels. (De Deurwaerdère & Di Giovanni, 2020)

The most commonly prescribed medications, called Selective Serotonin Reuptake

Inhibitor or SSRIs, act by blocking serotonin reuptake by transmitting neurons. This

results in elevated levels of serotonin in the synaptic space and its prolonged action on

the receiving neuron. SSRIs produce fewer side effects due to their action on serotonin

alone and not in any other neurotransmitter.