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Mechanism

Serotonin (5-HT)

A neurotransmitter synthesized from tryptophan, 90% in the gut and 10% in the brain's raphe nuclei. It regulates mood, anxiety, satiety, sleep, temperature, and intestinal motility. Its dysregulation is the target of SSRIs, SNRIs, and interventions such as 5-HTP, saffron, or Silexan.
Category
Scientific evidence
Very high
Number of findings
4
Sources
Our own summaries · Cited studies

Effect by goal · level of evidence

Depression and anxiety

modulates Very high SSRIs + clinical evidence (AAA)
Pharmacological target

The simple serotonergic hypothesis (\"serotonin deficit causes depression\") has been qualified by the evidence. SSRIs work, but their efficacy is related more to neuroplasticity and circuit modulation than to a simple increase in neurotransmitter.

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Sleep and circadian rhythm

regulates Very high physiology (A)
Melatonin precursor

Serotonin is a precursor of melatonin via N-acetyltransferase; its daytime rhythm modulates nighttime sleep.

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Gut-brain axis

regulates Very high physiology (A)
Gut production

90% of serotonin is produced in intestinal enterochromaffin cells, modulated by the microbiota. Dysbiosis alters synthesis and explains part of the anxiety-depression comorbidity with IBS.

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Satiety and appetite

regulates Moderate physiology (A)
Regulates appetite

Modulates the feeling of satiety and eating behaviors; its dysregulation contributes to eating disorders.

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Information, not medical advice. Scientific evidence reflects the quality of the studies.

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