5-HYDROXYTRYPTAMINE (5-HT)
This amine is also known as serotonin this is derived from the amine acid tryptophan it is formed by the mucous membrane of the intestine by the cells which stain with silver and are hence called argentaffin cells it is also found in the brain thrombocytes (platelets) mast cells pineal gland etc fruits like tomatoes plums nuts banana also contain serotonin venoms of wasps and bees also contain 5-HT
Distribution Biosynthesis and Degradation ::
5-HT occurs in the highest concentrations in three situations in the body ::
In the wall of the intestine.About 90% of the total amount in the body is present in enterochromaffin cells which are derived from the neural crest similar to those of the adrenal medulla these cells are interspersed with mucosal cells mainly in the stomach and small intestine some 5-HT also occurs in nerve cells of the myenteric plexus where it functions as an excitatory neurotransmitter
In blood 5-HT is present in high concentration in platelets which accumulate it from the plasma by an active transport system 5-HT is released when platelets aggregate at sites of tissue damage
In the central nervous system.5HT is a neuro transmitter in the central nervous system and is present in high concentrations in localized regions of mid brain (Raphe Nucleus)
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