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| serotonin |
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What is it? |
| Serotonin is one of a group of chemical messengers known as neurotransmitters that carry out communication in the brain and body. The message molecules flow from a nerve cell or neuron onto other neurons that act as receivers. There, they attach to a distinctly shaped area on the neuron called a receptor site. This union, which is like a key fitting into a lock, triggers signals that either allow the message to be passed on to other cells or prevent the message from being forwarded. Since the discovery of serotonin in the 1950s, researchers are finding evidence that one of its roles is to mediate emotions and judgment. |