Melatonin | Laboratory research

General Information

Melatonin(N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is the major hormone of the pineal gland and an intermediate metabolite of serotonin. Melatonin, in addition to the pineal gland, is produced by the retina and mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract. Maximum levels of melatonin in the blood are observed from midnight to 4 am. Melatonin secretion is mainly controlled by the sympathetic nervous system through norepinephrine. Its synthesis is strongly influenced by daylight, artificial lighting, electromagnetic energy, exercise, methionine metabolism and aging. It mainly regulates sleep time and duration and annual and circadian biorhythm. Melatonin is mainly metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine.

Key Features:

• Regulates the activity of the endocrine system, blood pressure, sleep frequency;
• Participates in the functioning of brain cells and the digestive tract;
• Slows down the aging process;
• Strengthens the immune system;
• Has antioxidant properties;
• Influences adaptation processes when changing time zones;
• Has anti-stress, immunostimulatory, anti-tumor effect.

Lack of melatonin secretion leads to increased production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and, consequently, follicular persistence, polycystic ovaries, and general hyperestrogenism. Against this background, uterine fibromatosis and dysfunctional uterine bleeding may develop. Epiphyseal hyperfunction, in turn, leads to hypoestrogenism and frigidity.

Maximum production of melatonin is observed in childhood, then it decreases, and in old age the hormone is almost not formed. Melatonin is responsible for the aging process - the rhythm of production of this hormone regulates the entire cycle of human life.