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melatonin

[ mel-uh-toh-nin ]

noun

Physiology.
  1. a hormone secreted by the pineal gland in inverse proportion to the amount of light received by the retina, important in the regulation of biorhythms: in amphibians, it causes a lightening of the skin.


melatonin

/ ˌɛəˈəʊɪ /

noun

  1. the hormone-like secretion of the pineal gland, causing skin colour changes in some animals and thought to be involved in reproductive function
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

melatonin

/ ĕ′ə-ōĭ /

  1. A hormone produced in the pineal gland that plays a role in regulating biological rhythms, including sleep and reproductive cycles. In many animals, melatonin also regulates the physiological effects that occur in response to seasonal changes, such as the growth of a winter coat of fur. Chemical formula: C 13 H 16 N 2 O 2 .
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yvlog History and Origins

Origin of melatonin1

Coined in 1958 by U.S. researcher Aaron B. Lerner and colleagues; from Greek é() “black” + tone + -in 2
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yvlog History and Origins

Origin of melatonin1

C20: probably from mela ( nocyte ) + ( sero ) tonin
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A Closer Look

Melatonin, a natural hormone manufactured by the pineal gland in the brain, communicates information about light to different parts of the body. It helps regulate biological rhythms and plays an important role in the reproductive cycles of many animals. In humans it is best known for helping to regulate the body's circadian sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin production is affected by light exposure to the eyes; melatonin levels rise during the night and fall during the day, becoming almost undetectable. Though it does not actually induce sleep, melatonin can have sleep-promoting effects. Experiments have shown that at high doses melatonin lowers body temperature, decreases motor activity, and increases fatigue. Melatonin production starts falling after puberty, and it can virtually disappear in the elderly, a phenomenon which could help to explain why sleep disturbances are more prevalent among older adults. Marketed as a dietary supplement and touted as a cure-all for insomnia, jet lag, and even cancer and aging, the overall effects of melatonin on human health are still largely unknown.
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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

For instance, our body will release melatonin during the hours of darkness to help us feel tired — and stay asleep throughout the night.

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The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with your body's production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep.

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"Indeed, many all-day drinkers suffer from sleep disturbances," he explained, adding that "in this context, it is of interest that coffee seems to suppress melatonin, an important sleep-inducing mediator in the brain."

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He advised her to buy melatonin off the internet, despite it being a prescription-only medication in the UK.

From

Taking melatonin supplements, eating a healthy diet and reducing alcohol intake before the time change and for a short period afterward can help to alleviate symptoms of sadness or depression, Palinkas said.

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