Arzneimittelforschung 2012; 62(04): 157-166
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1306321
Review
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Physiological, Pathophysiological and Therapeutic Impact of the Enteric Serotonergic System

G. J. Molderings
1   Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

received 06 February 2012

accepted 21 February 2012

Publication Date:
21 March 2012 (online)

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Abstract

Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) induces various effects in the central nervous system, cardiovascular system and gastrointestinal tract. The response depends primarily on the nature of the 5-HT receptors involved. In the light of the current knowledge about the anatomy and physiology of the serotonergic system and the distribution of the various 5-HT receptors in the gut, the established and potential therapeutic impact of 5-HT receptor ligands are discussed. In particular, selective 5-HT receptor ligands influencing intestinal motility and pain perception such as the 5-HT4 receptor agonist prucalopride appear promising for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.