[The role of serotonin in normal appetite regulation and in the pathogenesis of anorexia/bulimia].

Evidence accumulated over the past two decades indicates the existence of several neurochemical systems that influence feeding behavior. The central region regulating appetite is thought to be in the hypothalamus, where different monoaminergic systems are localized. It has been suggested that altered function in these systems is taking part in the pathogenesis of anorexia and bulimia nervosa. According to these theoretical principles and to the development of specific monoaminergic and anti-monoaminergic drugs, the pharmacological treatment of eating disorders can become more successful in the future. This article discusses the role of serotonin in appetite regulation and presents new evidence that a dysfunction in hypothalamic serotonergic pathways can be an important part of the pathogenesis of anorexia and bulimia nervosa.