The menstrual cycle and platelet 5-HT uptake.

Abstract

The association between the onset of depressive illness and the paramenstruum has been reported. In the present study, we looked at changes in platelet 5-HT uptake in six healthy, regularly menstruating subjects on days 1, 10, and 24 of three consecutive menstrual cycles to explore possible biochemical bases for mood changes associated with menstruation. Platelet 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) uptake was determined by suspension of platelet pellets in 0.5-5 microM hydroxy [G-3H] tryptamine [( 3H]-5-HT) creatinine sulfate solution at 37 degrees C and measurement of radioactivity of [3H]-5-HT in the platelets using liquid scintillation counting. Mood changes were measured using the Moos Menstruation Distress Questionnaire and the Spielberger State Anxiety Scale. Analysis of variance and trend analysis revealed significant elevation of Km and Vmax on day 24 of the cycle, which was consistent across the three menstrual cycles studied. A significant linear rise of "negative affect" across each cycle peaking on day 1 was detected. "Water retention" and "behavioral change" also peaked on day 1. No significant correlation, however, was obtained between the mood scores and platelet 5-HT uptake. These findings are discussed.

Anxiety Disorders: Sex Differences in Serotonin and Tryptophan Metabolism

“…previously mentioned results are in concordance to Justice and Chappuis-Arndt (1976)[64]. On the other hand,Tam et al (1985) [66] found that levels of 5-HT varied independent of menstrual cycle phases, and that these fluctuations in 5-HT did not correlate with fluctuations in anxiety.Further research will be necessary to determine the exact relationship between serotonin and the menstrual cycle.There are also some data that alterations in 5-HT metabolism are associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) Su et al (1997) [67]. determined that HPA-axis activity was inhibited following exposure to a serotonin agonist in patients with PMS during both the follicular and luteal phases of their menstrual cycle Menkes et al (1994) [68].…”

Imipramine Receptor Binding and Serotonin Uptake in Platelets of Women with Premenstrual Changes

“…However, the lack of con trols and platelet count in the study of Taylor et al [20], makes the interpretation of the results difficult. In another recent study [21], however, a high premenstrual 5-HT uptake in platelets was reported (PMS was not evaluated).…”

Sleep loss and postpartum psychosis

“…Estrogen shortens the circadian period resulting in lengthening of the sleep phase and causes advancing of sleep onset and consolidation of sleep (64). Estrogen modulates serotonergic function at different levels including synthesis (66), receptor binding (67,68), and synaptic reuptake (69). Estrogen modulates serotonergic function at different levels including synthesis (66), receptor binding (67,68), and synaptic reuptake (69).…”

“…Chronic estrogen administration leads to an increase in the 5-HT 2 receptors in the anterior frontal cortex, cingulate cortex, nucleus accumbens, and primary olfactory cortex -regions implicated in the modulation of mood, behavior, and cognition (65). Estrogen modulates serotonergic function at different levels including synthesis (66), receptor binding (67,68), and synaptic reuptake (69). Coyle et al (70) have recently suggested that variation at the serotonin transporter gene influences susceptibility to puerperal psychosis in women with bipolar disorder.…”