Abstract 530 Poster Session I, Saturday, 5/1 (poster 309)

INTRODUCTION: The hormone melatonin (MLT) is the principal product of the pineal gland and it is reportedly involved in certain physiological functions. In healthy humans it is secreted in a circadian fashion resulting in low endogenous plasma concentrations during the day and in high serum levels at night. The amount of secreted MLT may vary considerably among individuals but the diurnal amplitude of secreted MLT exhibits day to day consistency in the same person. Age-related changes in intraindividual MLT levels are well known. The blood elimination half-life time of the hormone ranges from 40 - 60 minutes. Some 85% of circulating melatonin are inactivated by the liver where it is converted to 6-hydroxy-melatonin. After conjugation with sulfate it is excreted in urine in a water-soluble form as 6-hydroxy-melatonin sulfate (6-OH-MLT-S). Approximately 1% of blood melatonin is excreted in the urine without being metabolized.

Log in or create a free account to read this content

Gain free access to this article, as well as selected content from this journal and more on nature.com

Access through your institution

or

Sign in or create an account
Continue with Google
Continue with ORCiD