Serotonin and TRPV4 Channels! The Gut Battle to Defy Fate

KAZ KOBAYASHI
2024年7月6日
読了時間: 2分

"Good grief..." Men often suffer from loose stools while women are more prone to constipation. These differences are deeply connected to the mechanisms of serotonin and TRPV4 channels in the gut. Here, we uncover these mechanisms and provide effective solutions!

A dynamic illustration of a character inspired by Jolyne Cujoh from JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, standing in her iconic JoJo pose. She has long, light green hair styled in two buns with loose strands and wears a green patterned outfit. She stands fiercely, with her body twisted and one arm outstretched while the other rests on her hip. Surrounding her are stylized symbols representing serotonin, TRPV4 channels, and gut health. The background features swirling energy and glowing elements, symbolizing the battle against constipation and gut issues. English onomatopoeia like 'ORA ORA' and 'MENACING' add to the intense atmosphere. The scene is vibrant, colorful, and dramatic, capturing the essence of a JoJo-style confrontation.

The Role of Serotonin

Research on rats shows that the spinal defecation center differs by sex. In males, dopamine and serotonin enhance colon activity, while in females, dopamine does not work, and GABA suppresses serotonin's activity, leading to constipation. Increasing serotonin through tryptophan, 5-HTP, and vitamin B6 can help women combat constipation. "This enemy is invisible but formidable!"

TRPV4 Channels and Constipation

What is TRPV4?

TRPV4 stands for "transient receptor potential vanilloid 4," a type of receptor that responds to various stimuli. It is known as an osmotic pressure-sensitive receptor. When extracellular fluid osmolarity decreases, TRPV4 activates, causing cell swelling and triggering the receptor.

TRPV4 and Constipation

Constant activation of TRPV4 can make the colon insensitive to stretching, potentially leading to constipation. However, research shows that culturing cells with butyrate can suppress TRPV4 increase. Improving gut flora with probiotics can be effective against constipation. "This enemy is still ongoing..."

Solutions and Improvements

Increasing Serotonin

Tryptophan: Consume foods rich in tryptophan (bananas, turkey, dairy products).
5-HTP: Use 5-HTP supplements to directly convert into serotonin.
Vitamin B6: Ensure adequate intake of vitamin B6 (fish, liver, whole grains).

Regulating TRPV4

Butyrate: Take probiotics that produce butyrate (like Miyairi-san) to balance gut flora and prevent excessive TRPV4 activation.
Dietary Fiber: Increase intake of dietary fiber (vegetables, fruits, whole grains) to maintain gut health.

Conclusion

Adjusting serotonin and TRPV4 channels can improve gut issues like constipation and loose stools. Use the right diet and supplements to enhance your gut health. "Good grief... but now we see a way to defy fate!"