serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4)

The serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) provides instructions for making a protein that controls the reuptake of serotonin, a chemical involved in mood regulation, from the space between nerve cells back into the nerve. This process helps regulate mood, anxiety, and overall emotional balance. Variations in this gene can influence how efficiently serotonin is reabsorbed, affecting susceptibility to mood disorders like depression or anxiety. Understanding SLC6A4 helps researchers explore genetic factors contributing to mental health and develop targeted treatments.