The role of serotonin in haemostasis

SummarySerotonin is transported by platelets and released upon activation. This induces constriction of injured blood vessels and enhances platelet aggregation to minimize blood loss. Consequently, serotonin receptor antagonists have been tested for their anti-ischemic potency in atherothrombotic disease. Unfortunately, the results have been contradictory. Recent murine studies found that activation of the platelet serotonin receptor induces shedding of important adhesion molecules. As a consequence, platelets lose their ability to contribute to thrombus formation and may be cleared from the circulation. Seroton…