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The Serotonin Theory
The serotonin theory claims that depression and other mental disorders are caused from an imbalance of serotonin in the brain, leading to a widespread use of SSRIs. This theory was first proposed in the 1960's and was publicized in the 1990's. SSRIs aim to increase serotonin levels in the synaptic cleft by blocking the reuptake of serotonin. However, the theory has been questioned in recent years, as studies haven’t consistently found a clear link between low serotonin and mental illnesses like depression.
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Behavioral Neuroscience
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The Serotonin Theory
A new medication is developed to treat a mood disorder. Its mechanism involves preventing the presynaptic neuron from reabsorbing a specific neurotransmitter after it has been released into the synapse. This results in a higher concentration of that neurotransmitter remaining in the synaptic cleft for a longer time. Based on this description, what is the primary way this medication enhances the neurotransmitter's effect?