| Abstract [eng] |
Purpose: To review and analyze scientific literature on serotonin biosynthesis regulation strategies using tianeptine, tryptophan, and folic acid in the treatment of depression and anorexia nervosa. Tasks: (1) To review scientific literature on the role of serotonin biosynthesis in the pathogenesis of depression and anorexia nervosa; (2) To analyze the mechanisms of action of tianeptine related to serotonin regulation and its application in the treatment of depression and anorexia nervosa; (3) To discuss the importance of tryptophan in serotonin biosynthesis and its therapeutic potential in the treatment of these disorders; (4) To evaluate the associations of folic acid with serotonin synthesis and its possible applications in the treatment of depression and anorexia nervosa; (5) To summarize the findings presented in the literature and provide recommendations for the practical application of serotonin biosynthesis regulation strategies. Methods: A scientific literature search was conducted using the ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and PubMed databases as well as the Google Scholar search engine. Keywords used in the search included „depression“, „tianeptine“, „anorexia nervosa“, „serotonin“, “serotonin biosynthesis regulation”, “folic acid”, “folate serotonin metabolism”, “tryptophan”. Articles published in English and Lithuanian between 2015 and 2025 relevant to the topic were selected for the analysis. Results: Analyzed scientific literature indicates that disturbances in the serotonergic system are an important biological factor in the pathogenesis of depression and anorexia nervosa, as serotonin plays a key role in the regulation of mood, emotions, appetite, and cognitive processes. It has been established that serotonin biosynthesis and neurotransmission can be influenced through different biological mechanisms. Tianeptine acts as an atypical antidepressant that modulates serotonergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission and supports neuronal plasticity; therefore, it is effective in the treatment of depression, particularly when accompanied by anxiety symptoms. Tryptophan, as the primary precursor of serotonin, can increase serotonin synthesis, while its deficiency-often occurring in cases of inadequate nutrition-may be associated with a deterioration of emotional state. Folic acid influences serotonin biosynthesis indirectly by participating in one-carbon metabolism and ensuring the formation of cofactors necessary for monoamine synthesis. Literature data indicate that folate deficiency is frequently associated with depressive symptoms, and supplementation may improve treatment outcomes. In summary, tianeptine, tryptophan, and folic acid act at different stages of serotonin regulation and may therefore have a complementary effect; however, clinical studies evaluating their combined use are still limited. |
