serotonin Biochem.
(sɪərəˈtəʊnɪn)
[f. sero- + tonic a. and n. + -in1.]
5-Hydroxytryptamine; a monoamine neurotransmitter, C10H12N2O, active in the production of vasoconstriction and anaphylactic shock, and in the regulation of cycles of body temperature and sleep.
| 1948 M. M. Rapport et al. in Science 24 Sept. 329 The general behaviour of the crystalline substance is suggestive of its homogeneity. We would like provisionally to name it serotonin, which indicates that its source is serum and its activity is one of causing constriction. 1949 Jrnl. Biol. Chem. CLXXX. 969 A recommendation has been made to reserve the name serotonin for the indole amine rather than the previously isolated complex. 1955 Sci. News Let. 19 Mar. 179/3 Serotonin has a chemical structure something like LSD-25. 1970 Times 4 May 11/8 The profound changes exerted by PCPA [sc. parachlorophenylalanine] on the cats' activities indicate the pervasive role played by serotonin in regulating the animals' drive and behaviour. 1974 M. C. Gerald Pharmacol. xvii. 324 There is a large body of evidence that links LSD's actions to its effects at serotonin receptor sites in the central nervous system. 1980 Brit. Med. Jrnl. 29 Mar. 939/3 There is also the question whether all the serotonin taken up by platelets in such an experiment is..incorporated into the same pool as endogenous serotonin. |