Mitochondrial Interaction with Serotonin in Neurobiology and Its Implication in Alzheimer’s Disease
Jing Tian, Eric Y. Du, Lan Guo
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a lethal neurodegenerative disorder characterized by severe brain pathologies and progressive cognitive decline. While the exact cause of this disease remains unknown, emerging evidence suggests that dysregulation of neurotransmitters contributes to the development of AD pathology and symptoms. Serotonin, a critical neurotransmitter in the brain, plays a pivotal role in regulating various brain processes and is implicated in neurological and psychiatric disorders, including AD. Recent studies have shed light on the interplay between mitochondrial function and serotonin regulation in brain physiology. In AD, there is a deficiency of serotonin, along with impairments in mitochondrial function, particularly in serotoninergic neurons. Additionally, altered activity of mitochondrial enzymes, such as monoamine oxidase, may contribute to serotonin dysregulation in AD. Understanding the intricate relationship between mitochondria and serotonin provides valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms of AD and identifies potential therapeutic targets to restore serotonin homeostasis and alleviate AD symptoms. This review summarizes the recent advancements in unraveling the connection between brain mitochondria and serotonin, emphasizing their significance in AD pathogenesis and underscoring the importance of further research in this area. Elucidating the role of mitochondria in serotonin dysfunction will promote the development of therapeutic strategies for the treatment and prevention of this neurodegenerative disorder.