Description
Melatonin is a hormone synthesized by the pineal gland (epiphysis) and controls circadian rhythms: sleep and wakefulness. Maximum hormone production occurs between 01:00 and 03:00 at night during sleep in complete darkness (70% of daily melatonin production). Even a short-term switching on of light at night can significantly reduce hormone synthesis. Melatonin inhibits the secretion of anterior pituitary hormones: FSH, LH, ACTH, TSH, STH. It possesses antioxidant properties, antitumor effect, and oncostatic activity. Disruption of melatonin production occurs in jet lag - time zone change syndrome (a shift in the hormone secretion rhythm is noted); in insomnia caused by shift work; delayed sleep phase syndrome; depressive disorders, etc. Melatonin synthesis decreases noticeably with age.
Melatonin is synthesized from tryptophan through the stage of serotonin formation, which converts to melatonin under the influence of N-acetyltransferase and hydroxyindole-O-methyltransferase. After performing its biological function, the predominant part of melatonin is metabolized in the liver involving cytochrome P450, turning into 6-hydroxymelatonin, which conjugates with sulfate to form melatonin sulfate.
Indications for use: increase/decrease in falling asleep and/or waking up time, deterioration of sleep quality, insomnia, Alzheimer's disease, weakening of immune system activity, intake of sedatives.
Period of execution
Within 6 days. The specified time does not include the day of biomaterial collection
Biomaterial type