REDUCED CENTRAL SEROTONIN TRANSPORTERS IN ALCOHOLISM

Objective: Dysfunction of monoamine uptake mechanisms has been implica ted in the pathogenesis of alcohol dependence. The authors explored wh ether serotonergic dysfunction is associated with anxiety and depressi on, which increase the risk of relapse in alcoholics. Method: The avai lability of serotonin and dopamine transporters in 22 male alcoholics and 13 healthy male volunteers was measured with the use of [I-123]bet a-CIT and single photon emission computed tomography, and psychopathol ogical correlates were assessed. Results: A significant reduction (a m ean of about 30%) in the availability of brainstem serotonin transport ers was found in the alcoholics, which was significantly correlated wi th lifetime alcohol consumption and with ratings of depression and anx iety during withdrawal. Conclusions: The findings support the hypothes is of serotonergic dysfunction in alcoholism and in withdrawal-emergen t depressive symptoms.