serotonin biosynthetic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the formation of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine), a monoamine neurotransmitter occurring in the peripheral and central nervous systems, also having hormonal properties. [GOC:jl, ISBN:0198506732]

The serotonin biosynthetic process is a complex and essential pathway that culminates in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and other critical physiological functions. This process begins with the amino acid tryptophan, which is obtained from the diet. Tryptophan is first converted to 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH). TPH exists in two isoforms, TPH1 and TPH2, with TPH2 primarily found in the brain and responsible for serotonin synthesis in the central nervous system. The second step in the pathway involves the decarboxylation of 5-HTP to serotonin by the enzyme aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC), also known as DOPA decarboxylase. This reaction removes a carboxyl group from 5-HTP, resulting in the formation of serotonin. Serotonin is then packaged into synaptic vesicles and released into the synapse, where it interacts with specific serotonin receptors on postsynaptic neurons, triggering a cascade of intracellular signaling events. The serotonin biosynthetic process is tightly regulated by a variety of factors, including enzyme activity, substrate availability, and neuronal activity. Dysregulation of this pathway is implicated in various neurological and psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Thus, understanding the serotonin biosynthetic process is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies for these conditions.'
"

Proteins (3)

Compounds (6)