Gut-derived serotonin and its emerging roles in immune function, inflammation, metabolism and the gut–brain axis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To shed light on the recently uncovered diverse role of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) in the regulation of immune functions, inflammation, metabolism, and gut-brain axis. RECENT FINDINGS: Peripheral 5-HT which accounts for approximately 95% of the total is largely synthesized in the gut by enterochromaffin cells. Enterochromaffin cells release 5-HT in response to various stimuli including microbial products. Released …