Melatonin

• Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain that helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm.

Synthesis of Melatonin:

• Step 1: Conversion to N-acetylserotonin:

• • Enzyme: Arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT).
  • Process: Serotonin is acetylated to form N-acetylserotonin.
  • Mechanism: AANAT transfers an acetyl group from acetyl-CoA to serotonin, producing N-acetylserotonin.

• Step 2: Conversion to Melatonin:

• • Enzyme: Hydroxyindole-O-methyltransferase (HIOMT).
  • Process: N-acetylserotonin is methylated to form Melat.
  • Mechanism: HIOMT transfers a methyl group from S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) to N-acetylserotonin, producing melatonin’s.

Significance:

1. Sleep-Wake Cycle: Regulates the sleep-wake cycle by signaling to the body when it’s time to sleep, aligning the internal clock with external light-dark cycles.
2. Antioxidant Properties: It has antioxidant effects, protecting cells from oxidative stress.
3. Immune Function: It supports the immune system and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Clinical Relevance of Melatonin:

• Sleep Disorders: It supplements are used to treat conditions like insomnia, jet lag, and circadian rhythm disorders.

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