Effects of serotonin on airways: recent developments.

The article presents information on the effects of serotonin on airways. Serotonin is an endogenous autacoid that can modulate activity in visceral sensory nerves. It produces complex physiologic cardiopulmonary system by interacting with both vascular and airway smooth-muscle 5-HT receptors. Although the effects of 5-HT on airways are today better defined, major. points, remain to be clarified to define the role of 5-HT, if any, in asthma in this regard, the relationships. between 5-HT and other inflammatory mediators, such as platelet-activating factor and adenosine, or substance P and bombesin should be investigated.