Dopamine and Serotonin Pathways in Balance: Mechanistic Insights and Botanical Modulation via Elaeocarpus ganitrus

Abstract

Dopamine and serotonin are key monoaminergic neurotransmitters involved in regulating motor function, mood, cognition, and neuroendocrine activity. Imbalances in these neurotransmitter systems are implicated in a wide range of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, major depressive disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. While conventional pharmacological agents such as L-DOPA, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors have demonstrated clinical efficacy, their long-term use is often limited by adverse effects, neurotoxicity, receptor desensitization, and poor compliance. This review presents a detailed mechanistic overview of dopamine and serotonin biosynthesis, feedback regulation, and physiological interplay, while highlighting the neuromodulatory role of Elaeocarpus ganitrus—a medicinal plant traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. Phytochemical constituents of E. ganitrus, including quercetin, gallic acid, and rudrakine, exert multimodal actions such as MAO-A/B inhibition, antioxidant neuroprotection, and promotion of monoamine synthesis. Preclinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in restoring monoaminergic balance in models of depression, anxiety, and Parkinsonism, with a favorable safety profile. Comparative analysis reveals that E. ganitrus may offer broader therapeutic utility, lower neurotoxicity risk, and enhanced compliance potential compared to synthetic monoaminergic agents. These findings position E. ganitrus as a promising candidate for integrative and translational neuropharmacology aimed at managing dopamine- and serotonin-related disorders.