Scientists Uncover Dangerous Connection Between Serotonin and Heart Valve Disease

A multicenter study found that patients with degenerative mitral regurgitation who used SSRIs tended to have valve surgery at a younger age.

Mouse experiments showed that loss of the serotonin transporter led to thicker mitral valves.

The findings suggest serotonin signaling may help drive progression of this common heart valve disease.

Researchers say the work could improve risk assessment and point to new treatment targets.