Serotonin

C₁₀H₁₂N₂O

IUPAC: 3-(2-Aminoethyl)-1H-indol-5-ol

CAS: 50-67-9

Overview

Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter primarily found in the gastrointestinal tract (about 90%), blood platelets, and central nervous system. It regulates mood, sleep, appetite, and digestion. SSRI antidepressants work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.

Composition

Element Symbol Atoms Atomic Mass
Hydrogen H 12 1.0080
Carbon C 10 12.0110
Nitrogen N 2 14.0070
Oxygen O 1 15.9990

Elemental Composition

H
6.9%
C
68.2%
N
15.9%
O
9.1%

Uses

  • Mood regulation neurotransmitter
  • SSRI drug target (depression treatment)
  • GI motility regulation
  • Platelet aggregation

Fun Facts

  • About 90% of the body's serotonin is in the gut, not the brain
  • Derived from tryptophan in a two-step biosynthetic pathway

Safety

  • ⚠ Serotonin syndrome from drug interactions can be life-threatening

Structure

SMILES

C1=CC2=C(C=C1O)C(=CN2)CCN

Properties

Type
organic
State
solid
Molar Mass
176.22 g/mol
Density
1.2400 g/cm³
Melting Point
167.7 °C
Solubility
20 g/L at 27°C

Molecular Descriptors

Exact Mass
176.0950
XLogP
0.2
TPSA
62.0 Ų
H-Bond Donors
3
H-Bond Acceptors
2
Rotatable Bonds
2
Heavy Atoms
13
Complexity
174.0

Also Known As

5-Hydroxytryptamine 5-HT

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Serotonin?
Serotonin (C₁₀H₁₂N₂O) is a organic compound with the IUPAC name 3-(2-Aminoethyl)-1H-indol-5-ol.
What is the molecular weight of Serotonin?
Serotonin has a molar mass of 176.215 g/mol.
What state is Serotonin at room temperature?
Serotonin is a solid at room temperature.
Is Serotonin organic or inorganic?
Serotonin is classified as an organic compound.
What elements make up Serotonin?
Serotonin (C₁₀H₁₂N₂O) is composed of Hydrogen (H), Carbon (C), Nitrogen (N), Oxygen (O).