Abstract
The irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a complex disorder that is associated with altered gastrointestinal motility, secretion, and sensation. Serotonin (5-HT) is an important neurotransmitter and paracrine signalling molecule in the gastrointestinal tract. 5-HT release from enterochromaffin (EC) cells initiates peristaltic, secretory, vasodilatory, vagal and nociceptive reflexes. The enteric nervous system (ENS) comprises a semiautonomous effector system that is connected to the central autonomic network. Parasympathetic and sympathetic nerves modulate the ENS via afferent and efferent communications. Ongoing, bidirectional brain-gut interactions involving 5-HT pathways occur that significantly influence the effector systems. Altered 5-HT signalling may lead to both intestinal and extraintestinal symptoms in IBS. 5-HT directly and indirectly affects intestinal motor and secretory function and abnormalities may lead to either constipation or diarrhea. 5-HT modulates sensation and perception of visceral stimulation at peripheral and central sites. Therapeutic agents targeting altered 5-HT signalling may provide new, effective treatments for patients with IBS.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 1285-1293 |
| Number of pages | 9 |
| Journal | British Journal of Pharmacology |
| Volume | 141 |
| Issue number | 8 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Apr 2004 |
Keywords
- Brain-gut axis
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Enteric nervous system
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Serotonin
- Visceral pain
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Pharmacology