SIDS Linked to Brain Chemical Dysfunction

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Serotonin is a neurotransmitter -- a chemical messenger -- that helps the brainstem communicate with nerve cells in the spinal cord and beyond. It is involved in many critical body functions, such as heart rate regulation, breathing, temperature regulation and more.

Interestingly, a complete block of serotonin doesn't cause death. "Having a dysfunction in the serotonin system is somehow worse than having no serotonin at all," Gross said.

These findings could lead to new ways to identify which babies are at the greatest risk of SIDS, said Gross. Both Gross and Willinger said they don't foresee a time when a pharmacological intervention could be developed to prevent SIDS, however.

"Drug therapy is probably not the way to do this. These neurotransmitters control a huge number of functions," said Willinger.

But, "if you could identify which babies are at risk, you could be a little more specific in who you insist make behavioral changes and modifications," said Dr. Rachel Moon, a pediatrician and SIDS researcher at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

"Some babies are more at risk, and these environmental factors could overwhelm the baby's capabilities," added Moon, who is also a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics' SIDS Task Force.

More information

To learn more about preventing SIDS, visit the U.S. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.