When a nerve impulse arrives at a serotonin (5-HT) nerve terminal, 5-HT is released from synaptic vesicles into the synaptic cleft. 5-HT molecules bind to their receptors on the post-synaptic membrane and the nerve impulse is propagated or inhibited, depending on the specific receptor. 5-HT molecules are then released from the receptors and taken back into the nerve terminal via the 5-HT re-uptake transporter. 5-HT is degraded by monoamine oxidase (MAO) and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT).

file_download Download in HQ

Related content

Depression Comorbidity in Epilepsy: Identification and Screening Guidance play_circle Video play_circle
Depression Comorbidity in Epilepsy: Identification and Screening Guidance

In this video, Professor Dr. Nathalie Jetté reviews depression as a common yet often under-recognized comorbidity in epilepsy.

28.11.2025 Epilepsy
How can we address the stigma surrounding epilepsy? play_circle Video play_circle
How can we address the stigma surrounding epilepsy?

In this video, Professor Dr. Gretchen Birbeck examines epilepsy-associated stigma as a global public-health challenge

28.11.2025 Epilepsy
What can you tell us about the initial selection of an anti-seizure medication? play_circle Video play_circle
What can you tell us about the initial selection of an anti-seizure medication?

In this video, Professor Dr. Jacqueline French reviews practical, first-line decision-making for anti-seizure medication selection

28.11.2025 Epilepsy