title: Neuroendocrine challenge studies of suicidal behavior.
abstract: This article reviews the research data regarding human neuroendocrine systems and suicidal behavior. Special emphasis is placed on pharmacochallenge studies. Such studies uniquely allow for functional assessment of neuroendocrine parameters in living subjects. Serotonergic mechanisms have been the most fruitful areas of research. While discussing the major areas of controversy, theoretical approaches to integration are offered.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychiatry, Hahnemann School of Medicine, Allegheny University of the Health Sciences, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Weiss
authors.forename: E F
authors.initials: EF
authors.lastname: Coccaro
mesh_terms: D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D007030:Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System / Q000503:physiopathology*; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000502:physiology*; D010913:Pituitary-Adrenal System / Q000503:physiopathology*; D012701:Serotonin / Q000502:physiology; D013405:Suicide / Q000523:psychology*; D013406:Suicide, Attempted / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology*; D000092864:Suicide Prevention
chemical_list: D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents; D012701:Serotonin