Research finding · May 2023
Serotonin receptors in the brain may be related to mood disorders and suicidal behavior
Biomarkers are measurable substances in the body that can indicate the presence of particular diseases or conditions. In suicide prevention research, some biological scientists are focused on identifying specific markers in the brain that may contribute to suicide risk. This knowledge may amplify our ability to detect suicide risk and intervene with more targeted treatment when it is needed.
The region of the brain associated with processing emotions, self-perception, and decision-making (among other functions) is called the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC). In his study examining brain images, Dr. Spiro Pantazanos found that decreased ability for a specific serotonin molecule (5-HT1A) to bind to its receptor in the vmPFC may indicate higher vulnerability to mood disorders and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Brain function related to serotonin may impact how a person deals with negative emotions and stress.
This finding comes from an AFSP-funded study — see the grant below ↓
