Neurotransmitters Flashcards
What behaviors does the serotonergic system influence?
Arousal Mood Anxiety and aggression. Control of eating Sleeping Dreaming Pain Sexual Behaviour Memory
Where are the cell bodies of the serotonergic system found?
In several clusters located in the raphe nuclei of the midbrain, pons, and medulla.
Where do cells from the dorsal and medial raphe nuclei project to?
Medial raphe nucleus = Parts of the Limbic system: Hypothalamus, Hippocampus & Amygdala
Dorsal raphe nuclei project with more density to the striatum, cortex, cerebellum, and thalamus.
How does serotonin effect mood?
Low serotonin levels have been linked with low mood.
This can be treated by SSRIs, but will also interfere with sleep, reduce appetite, and have deleterious effects on sexual performance.
How does serotonin effect cognitive function?
Serotonin has been linked to memory, specifically the function of putting new memories into long-term storage.
Deficits in learning and memory associated with aging and Alzheimer’s disease appear to coincide with a decline in serotonergic function. Because many serotonergic receptors are found in limbic regions, memories that have emotional connotations may be especially affected by compromise of the serotonergic system.
