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Melatonin

Melatonin

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Substance Overview and History

Melatonin, a neurohormone produced predominantly by the pineal gland, is also synthesized in smaller amounts by the retina, lymphocytes, bone marrow, gastrointestinal tract, and thymus. Its production is regulated by light and dark cycles, with secretion increasing in darkness. Melatonin influences sleep patterns and circadian rhythms through its interaction with melatonin receptor 1 (MT1) and melatonin receptor 2 (MT2), which are expressed across mammalian organs. Beyond its role in sleep regulation, melatonin exhibits powerful antioxidant properties, scavenging free radicals and demonstrating anti-inflammatory and anti-excitatory effects. This multifaceted molecule also contributes to immune regulation, reproduction, puberty timing, mood stabilization, and cancer prevention. Deficiencies in melatonin production are linked to conditions such as breast cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

References:

Ahmad, S. B., Ali, A., Bilal, M., Rashid, S. M., Wani, A. B., Bhat, R. R., & Rehman, M. U. (2023). Melatonin and Health: Insights of Melatonin Action, Biological Functions, and Associated Disorders. Frontiers in Endocrinology.

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FAQ
What is melatonin, and where is it produced?
Melatonin is a neurohormone primarily produced by the pineal gland in humans. It is also synthesized in smaller amounts by the retina, gastrointestinal tract, bone marrow, lymphocytes, and thymus.
References:

Ahmad, S. B., Ali, A., Bilal, M., Rashid, S. M., Wani, A. B., Bhat, R. R., & Rehman, M. U. (2023). Melatonin and Health: Insights of Melatonin Action, Biological Functions, and Associated Disorders. Frontiers in Endocrinology.

How does light affect melatonin production?
Light suppresses melatonin synthesis, while darkness enhances its production. This regulation helps maintain the body’s sleep-wake cycle and circadian rhythms.
References:

Ahmad, S. B., Ali, A., Bilal, M., Rashid, S. M., Wani, A. B., Bhat, R. R., & Rehman, M. U. (2023). Melatonin and Health: Insights of Melatonin Action, Biological Functions, and Associated Disorders. Frontiers in Endocrinology.

What are the primary functions of melatonin?
Melatonin regulates sleep patterns and circadian rhythms, acts as an antioxidant, reduces inflammation, supports immune function, and plays roles in reproduction, mood stabilization, and cancer prevention.
References:

Ahmad, S. B., Ali, A., Bilal, M., Rashid, S. M., Wani, A. B., Bhat, R. R., & Rehman, M. U. (2023). Melatonin and Health: Insights of Melatonin Action, Biological Functions, and Associated Disorders. Frontiers in Endocrinology.