Health / Medical Topics |
Therapeutic Melatonin
Definition 1
A therapeutic chemically synthesized form of the pineal indole melatonin with antioxidant properties. The pineal synthesis and secretion of melatonin, a serotonin-derived neurohormone, is dependent on beta-adrenergic receptor function. Melatonin is involved in numerous biological functions including circadian rhythm, sleep, the stress response, aging, and immunity. (NCI Thesaurus)
Definition 2
A neurohormone synthesized by the pineal gland in mammals and by lower plants. Production peaks at night and secretion increases during exposure to light. In humans, it is implicated in the regulation of sleep, mood, puberty, and ovarian cycles. Evidence shows that melatonin is a highly effective free radical scavenger and antioxidant both in vivo and in vitro. (NLM, Medical Subject Headings)