Author: Andréa Bergeron, Undergraduate Student in Psychology Supervision: Stephane Bourassa, PhD, BSc, RN, CD, Samuel Akinola, RN, MSc Keywords: serotonin, neurotransmitter, mood, sunlight
Introduction
In this publication, our scientific series synthesizes neurotransmission mechanisms related to feelings in order to highlight targeted strategies for improving mood. To do so, a rapid literature screening is carried out according to a structured protocol. The article selection process is documented. NotebookLM and ChatGPT were used for certain translations.
Results
Lower levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter essential for mood regulation and stabilization, are observed in patients with anxiety and depression. As a result, negative emotional states would make the perception of pain even more uncomfortable.
Genetic causes and other childhood-related factors may influence variations in the 5-HT1A and 5-HTT-LPR alleles, which play a role in serotonin levels.
Moreover, certain types of light are known to modulate the serotonergic circuit. Across all seasons, serotonin levels in the blood of healthy patients were higher on sunny days and were proportional to the number of hours of exposure. Blue light, whose main source is the sun, is a form of illumination with positive effects on mood.
Discussion
For further information, we refer you to the following keywords: serotonin, neurotransmitter, mood, light exposure.
References
- Azmitia, E. C. (2020). Evolution of serotonin: Sunlight to suicide. In C. P. Müller & K. A. Cunningham (Eds.), Handbook of Behavioral Neuroscience (Vol. 31, pp. 3–22). Elsevier. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-444-64125-0.00001-3
- Boersma, K., & Flink, I. K. (2025). Key aspects concerning the role of emotion in the chronic pain experience. Current Opinion in Psychology, 62, 102000. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2025.102000
- Calderone, A., Latella, D., Impellizzeri, F., de Pasquale, P., Famà, F., Quartarone, A., & Calabrò, R. S. (2024). Neurobiological Changes Induced by Mindfulness and Meditation: A Systematic Review. Biomedicines, 12(11), Article 11. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12112613
- Capatina, T. F., Oatu, A., Babasan, C., & Trifu, S. (2025). Translating Molecular Psychiatry: From Biomarkers to Personalized Therapies—A Narrative Review. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(9), 4285.
- Williams, L. M., Gatt, J. M., Schofield, P. R., Olivieri, G., Peduto, A., & Gordon, E. (2009). 'Negativity bias' in risk for depression and anxiety: Brain-body fear circuitry correlates, 5-HTT-LPR and early life stress. NeuroImage, 47(3), 804–814. doi:10.1016/j.neuroimage.2009.05.009.
VIMY Knowledge: let's think about it. Scientific Posts/Series are part of a prospective research program. Authors declare no conflict of interests. © (MD) 2026 Operation Compagnons D'Armes. Original logo adapted by Andréa Bergeron.