Localized alterations in pre- and postsynaptic serotonin binding sites in the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex of suicide victims

摘要: Altered serotonin indices have been reported in the brain of suicide victims. We sought to localize changes presynaptic and postsynaptic receptors identify an area prefrontal cortex that may influence risk. Quantitative autoradiography was performed coronal sections determine whether 5-HT1A receptor (postsynaptic cortex) transporter (presynaptic) binding are different victims compared matched controls. higher 85 103 sampled areas group (n = 18 pairs; P < 0.0001). The increase ranged from 17 30%. more pronounced ventrolateral cortex. Serotonin found be lower all but one 43 regions 22 reduction most cortex, where difference between suicides controls 15 27%. were negatively correlated (r -0.35 -0.44, 0.04 0.007) within same areas, suggesting common regulatory factors with opposite effects on two receptors. conclude abnormality system involving predominantly hypothesize serotonergic dysfunction this region contributes risk for suicidal behavior.