A METHOD FOR INCREASING BRAIN SEROTONIN WITHOUT INCURRING SOME OF THE PERIPHERAL EFFECTS OF THE HORMONE

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Abstract
When mice were given the specific antimetabolite of serotonin, l-benzyl-2,5-dimethylserotonin or BAS, followed by 5-hydroxytryptophan, the serotonin content of their brains was markedly increased. This was reflected in behavioral changes and thus was an indication that the excess serotonin in the brain was pharmacologically active. Some of the effects on peripheral organs, however, were prevented. This was true of the diarrhea, due to intestinal contractions, which 5-hydroxytryptophan caused to a marked degree in unprotected animals. The relationship of these results to experimental psychiatry was indicated.