When asked to describe the role of serotonin, many of us will describe it as the ‘happy hormone’. Indeed, serotonin is a chemical signalling molecule in the brain which plays an integral role in the regulation of mood, but serotonin can also regulate a myriad of other important central functions, including learning and memory formation.
However, most of the serotonin in our bodies is present outside the nervous system where it can regulate digestion. As we age, serotonin signalling changes, affecting learning and memory formation and digestion.
Given that the number of people aged over 60 years old is set to double by 2050, understanding how serotonin signalling changes across the life course is vitally important to provide us with the knowledge to preserve these functions in older people.
Professor Yeoman’s lecture will demonstrate how his ageing research on rhythm generating circuits in simple model systems led to a programme of work understanding the causes of age-related bowel disorders and a study on the efficacy of antidepressants in older people.
Free event. All are welcome. If you would like to attend, please register online no later than 48 hours prior to the event.