Melatonin
Articles tagged with Melatonin
Melatonin application increases effectiveness of autologous ovarian tissue transplantation, study reveals
Researchers found that melatonin increased vascularization and reduced apoptosis in ovarian grafts, improving their viability. The study used an absorbable sponge to apply melatonin to autologous ovarian tissue transplants in rats, revealing its potential as a treatment option for fertility preservation in young cancer patients.
World Hormone Day 2026
The European Society of Endocrinology organizes World Hormone Day to educate the public about hormone-related health issues. Global endocrine disorders affect millions worldwide, emphasizing the need for proper hormone balance.
Melatonin shows promise as adjunct therapy for systemic lupus erythematosus, study finds
Researchers suggest melatonin may play a significant role in managing SLE and its complications, including lupus nephritis. Studies have shown melatonin can reduce renal inflammation and oxidative stress, but more robust clinical trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness.
European Society of Endocrinology leads global call to raise awareness of hormone health on World Hormone Day 2026
The European Society of Endocrinology is launching a new campaign to raise awareness about the importance of hormone health. The #BecauseHormonesMatter initiative aims to improve public understanding of hormones and promote practical steps for better hormone health, following the success of last year's campaign.
Long-term use of melatonin supplements to support sleep may have negative health effects
A study found that long-term use of melatonin supplements may increase the risk of heart failure, hospitalization, and death in adults with chronic insomnia. The research analyzed data from a large international database and found consistent and significant increases in serious health outcomes, even after balancing for other risk factors.
New EndoCompass Research Roadmap calls for coordinated investment to tackle Europe’s hormone health challenge
The European Society of Endocrinology has released the EndoCompass Research Roadmap, a major new initiative to align research efforts and improve funding strategies for hormone-related health challenges. The roadmap identifies specific research needs across eight endocrine specialties and five cross-cutting areas.
Storing breast milk for specific times of day could support babies’ circadian rhythm
Researchers found that breast milk components like melatonin and cortisol vary over the course of the day. Labeling expressed milk as 'morning,' 'afternoon,' or 'evening' could help align feeding times with circadian signals, supporting infant sleep and immune development.
Melatonin identified as a potential therapeutic agent for SLC26A2-related chondrodysplasias
Research finds melatonin ameliorates impaired anabolism, proliferation, and cell death in Slc26a2-deficient chondrocytes. Melatonin also rescues defective bone formation and morphology in mice with cartilage-specific Slc26a2 knockout.
Melatonin protects against muscle damage and restores the proportion of fibers altered by obesity and diabetes
Researchers found that melatonin improves mitochondrial function, reduces cellular stress, and prevents programmed cell death, promoting the conversion of glycolytic to oxidative fibers in muscle tissue. This change optimizes energy production and protects against muscle deterioration caused by obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Melatonin supplementation may help offset DNA damage linked to night shift work
A small clinical trial found that melatonin supplementation improved oxidative DNA damage repair capacity among night shift workers. However, larger studies are needed to confirm the results and explore varying doses and long-term effects of melatonin use.
BfR Consumer Monitor: The majority of Germans are aware of the "sleep hormone" melatonin, but many are skeptical
According to the BfR Consumer Monitor, 56% of Germans are familiar with melatonin supplements, but opinions on their use are divided. The survey also found that many people are concerned about microplastics in food and antibiotic resistance, with 68% and 62% expressing high concern respectively.
Light at the end of the tunnel for night shift workers
A new study published in the SLEEP journal found that using artificial lighting synchronized to natural biological rhythms improves quality of sleep and work performance for night shift workers. Strategic exposure to light accelerated body-clock adjustment and improved alertness and performance, as well as sleep after a night shift.
Scientists mix sky’s splendid hues to reset circadian clocks
A novel LED device with alternating orange and blue wavelengths has been shown to effectively reset circadian clocks in humans. The study found that the light outpaced other devices in advancing melatonin levels, offering a new approach to counteract seasonal affective disorder.
Good sleep habits important for overweight adults, OHSU study suggests
A new study from Oregon Health & Science University reveals that people who are overweight and ignore their body's signals to sleep at night experience negative health consequences. The study found sex-specific differences in health impacts, with men having higher levels of belly fat and women having higher overall body fat percentage.
Study reveals that nearly half of foster caregivers have given melatonin to their child
A new study found that 48% of foster caregivers administer melatonin to their child, associated with poorer overall sleep quality. Children taking melatonin also experienced increased severity of daytime behavioral problems despite no link to depression or anxiety.
Researchers at the University of Granada demonstrate the positive effect of melatonin in the prevention of obesity
The study found that chronic administration of melatonin prevents obesity and reduces visceral obesity by around 3%. Melatonin also enhances weight loss when combined with cold water bathing. The researchers recommend incorporating melatonin, natural light exposure, and physical activity into daily routines to manage obesity.
Insulin resistance in shift workers not affected by melatonin treatment
A new study from the University of Surrey found that melatonin treatment significantly improved sleep quality in night shift workers, but had no effect on insulin resistance or glucose tolerance. The research suggests that alternative methods to improve insulin resistance and reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes may be needed.
Melatonin and carcinogenesis in mice: The 50th anniversary of relationships
Researchers revisited melatonin's effects on cancer in mice, finding that nighttime administration inhibits chemically induced mammary tumor development. The study highlights the importance of timing in using this freely available compound for cancer prevention and treatment.
This next generation blue light could potentially promote or hinder sleep on command
Researchers designed LEDs that emit different wavelengths of blue light to support natural circadian rhythms. Using these new bulbs increased nighttime melatonin levels by 12.2% and reduced daytime melatonin by 21.9% compared to conventional LED exposure.
Cannabis users appear to be relying less on conventional sleep aids
A recent study found that most cannabis users (80%) have stopped using over-the-counter or prescription sleep aids and instead prefer inhaling high-THC cannabis to help with falling asleep. The study also showed that cannabis users experienced fewer headaches, nausea, and dry mouth compared to traditional sleep aids.
Study finds melatonin use soaring among youth
A new study reveals that melatonin use is increasing among US children and adolescents, with nearly 1 in 5 school-aged children taking the hormone for sleep. The study found that parents are giving melatonin to preschoolers without proper regulation, raising concerns about safety and efficacy.
Melatonin and its derivatives enhance long-term object recognition memory
Researchers from Sophia University found that melatonin and its derivatives, such as ramelteon and N1-acetyl-5-methoxyquinuramine, facilitate the formation of long-term memory in male mice. The study suggests that melatonin modulates the phosphorylation levels of key proteins involved in long-term memory formation.
Cause of sleep disturbance in cardiac disease identified: Ganglia play previously unrecognized role
A study published in Science reveals that ganglia in the neck region are responsible for disrupting melatonin production and causing sleep disturbances in people with heart conditions. Researchers found that macrophages accumulate in the ganglion, leading to inflammation and scarring, which can be treated with drugs.
Melatonin doesn’t just help you sleep — it can help keep fruit and vegetables fresh
Researchers found melatonin reduces chilling injury symptoms and membrane leakage in cold-stored fruits and vegetables, maintaining freshness. Melatonin is a safe alternative to hazardous chemical treatments without adverse effects on consumer health.
Not just for sleep: Melatonin awakens scientists to its health benefits for cattle
Recent research at Mississippi State University has discovered melatonin's various health benefits for cattle, including antioxidant properties that alleviate oxidative stress and potentially controlling body temperature. The hormone also alters the microbiome and promotes skeletal muscle growth in cattle.
Melatonin, commonly used to improve sleep, can aggravate bowel inflammation
A study published in Microorganisms shows that melatonin can aggravate Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis by disrupting the balance of gut microbiota. The hormone, commonly used to improve sleep, had negative effects on bowel inflammation in laboratory mice, depending on their microbiota profile.
New machine-learning method predicts body clock timing to improve sleep and health decisions
A new machine-learning method analyzes metabolites in blood to predict the time of an individual's internal circadian timing system. This approach has shown accuracy comparable to previous methods, but requires fewer samples.
Use of melatonin linked to decreased self-harm in young people
A study from Karolinska Institutet found that melatonin prescription was associated with a lower risk of self-harm in young people with psychiatric disorders, particularly adolescent girls. The risk of self-harm increased before treatment initiation and decreased afterwards.
Chronic jet lag discovered in people living with HIV
Researchers found that people living with HIV have a significantly delayed internal body clock, consistent with the symptoms of jet lag. This disruption may contribute to increased health problems experienced by those with HIV. The study suggests a strong need for further research on younger people living with HIV in other countries.
Weighted blanket increases melatonin
A new study from Uppsala University found that using a weighted blanket at bedtime increases melatonin production by about 30 percent. The researchers also discovered that the weight of the blanket (12% of participant's body weight) reduced stress system activity, but had no effect on oxytocin and cortisol levels.
Excessive smartphone screen time linked to earlier puberty onset
A rat study found that excessive blue light exposure is associated with earlier puberty onset, reduced melatonin levels, and increased reproductive hormones. This suggests a potential risk for childhood development and future fertility.
A candlelight-like glow from a flexible organic LED
Scientists create a bendable organic LED with a mica backing that produces soft, warm light similar to candlelight, with minimal blue wavelength emissions. This device offers a potential solution for sleep-friendly lighting alternatives.
Higher dose of melatonin improved sleep in older adults
A study conducted at Brigham and Women's Hospital found that a higher dose of melatonin (5mg) increased total sleep time compared to placebo in healthy older adults. The high-dose melatonin group showed significant improvements in both nighttime and daytime sleep episodes.
Use of melatonin supplements among US adults
A survey of 55,000 US adults found that melatonin supplement use rose substantially over nearly two decades. The study's findings suggest a shift in attitudes towards supplements and health, highlighting the growing demand for natural health products.
Even dim light before bedtime may disrupt a preschooler’s sleep
Research found that preschoolers' melatonin levels are suppressed by even dim light before bedtime, with suppression rates ranging from 70% to 99%.
Randomized controlled trial offers insights on how the timing of dinner and genetics affect individuals’ blood sugar control
A randomized controlled trial found that late eating, associated with high melatonin levels, impairs blood sugar control through a defect in insulin secretion. Participants with the genetic variant in the MTNR1B gene had higher blood sugar levels, highlighting the importance of considering genetics in food timing recommendations.
Melatonin exacerbates asthma discovers research group
A research group from Tohoku University discovered that melatonin, a sleep hormone, exacerbates asthma by potentiating bronchoconstriction. Melatonin weakens the relaxing effect of bronchodilators through the activation of the melatonin MT2 receptor.
A blood test for your body clock? It's on the horizon
Researchers at University of Colorado Boulder have developed a blood test that can assess the timing of an individual's internal circadian clock, potentially leading to personalized medicine breakthroughs. The study found that analyzing a combination of molecules in a single blood draw can determine the timing of a person's biological ...
Melatonin in mice: there's more to this hormone than sleep
The study revealed that natural melatonin is linked to a pre-hibernation state that allows mice to slow down their metabolism and survive when food is scarce. Melatonin-producing female mice also enter a state called daily torpor, a low-power mode similar to hibernation that conserves energy.
Myopia link to poor sleep, and screen time
People with myopia experience poorer sleep quality due to delayed circadian rhythms and lower melatonin production. The study highlights the importance of adequate sleep for good vision, particularly in children exposed to excessive screen time.
Oncotarget: Melatonin increases overall survival of prostate cancer patients
A retrospective study found that melatonin significantly improved the median overall survival of prostate cancer patients with poor prognosis, reducing mortality risk by more than twice. The antitumor effects of melatonin are fully realized in treating PCa patients with unfavorable tumor progression factors.
Melatonin produced in the lungs prevents infection by novel coronavirus
Researchers found that melatonin synthesized in the lungs acts as a barrier against SARS-CoV-2, preventing expression of genes that encode proteins in cells serving as viral entry points. The hormone also inhibits immune response to allow virus to remain in respiratory tract for a few days.
Concordia researchers find melatonin is effective against polycystic kidney disease
Researchers at Concordia University discover that melatonin reduces cysts in the renal tubules of fruit flies, a finding that may improve treatments for polycystic kidney disease. The study builds on previous work and suggests a targeted approach to treating this genetic chronic disease.
Melatonin: finally, a supplement that actually boosts memory
A new study by Tokyo Medical and Dental University researchers suggests that melatonin and its metabolite AMK promote long-term memories in mice and shield them from cognitive decline. In the study, young and aging mice were able to form and recall memories after receiving doses of melatonin and AMK.
Study can orient use of melatonin in the treatment of breast cancer
Researchers discovered that melatonin may regulate gene expression and intensify tumor suppressor genes, leading to increased tumor cell death and reduced proliferation. The study identified target genes for melatonin, which could guide personalized therapies for breast cancer patients.
Worms reveal why melatonin promotes sleep
Researchers identified melatonin's role in promoting sleep by activating the BK channel in the brain, a process that limits neurotransmitter release. This finding has implications for understanding melatonin's effects and potential treatment of diseases related to the BK channel.
Cleveland Clinic researchers identify melatonin as possible COVID-19 treatment
Researchers have found that melatonin may be a viable treatment option for COVID-19, reducing the likelihood of testing positive by nearly 30%. The study analyzed patient data from Cleveland Clinic's registry and identified 34 potential repurposing candidates, including melatonin.
Do urban fish exhibit impaired sleep?
Researchers found that even low levels of urban sky glow can suppress melatonin production in European perch, leading to impaired sleep. This highlights the impact of artificial lighting on aquatic life's natural rhythms.
Did cataract surgery change melatonin secretion in older patients?
A randomized clinical trial found that cataract surgery increased melatonin secretion in patients aged 60 and above. The study suggests that changes in light perception due to cataract surgery may affect the body's natural circadian rhythm.
Sleep problems in children, teens with autism are focus of new AAN guideline
A new AAN guideline provides recommendations for treating sleep problems in children and teens with autism. The guideline suggests starting with behavior-modification strategies, such as setting a consistent sleep routine, before considering medication like melatonin.
Novel melatonin receptor molecules make possible therapies to adjust biological clock
Researchers at UC San Francisco, UNC and UB have discovered novel melatonin receptor molecules that can modulate circadian rhythms. These molecules attach to the MT1 melatonin receptor with high selectivity, generating cellular responses opposite to those of melatonin.
Blue light can help heal mild traumatic brain injury
Researchers at the University of Arizona have discovered that early morning blue light exposure therapy can aid in the healing process of people impacted by mild traumatic brain injuries. The study found that improved sleep quality led to improvements in cognitive function, reduced daytime sleepiness, and actual brain repair.
Melatonin for jet lag shouldn't be available on NHS concludes expert review
An expert review concludes that melatonin for jet lag may not be effective in relieving symptoms due to scant evidence. The review suggests that non-drug treatments like timing exposure to bright light and altering bed and mealtimes may be more complicated.
Light pollution can suppress melatonin production in humans and animals
Research found that even low levels of urban skyglow can suppress melatonin production in humans and vertebrates. The sensitivity threshold for humans is 6 lux, while fish and rodents require much lower levels. Artificial light at night can disrupt nocturnal melatonin production.
Melatonin may not help prevent delirium after heart surgery
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society found that melatonin treatment did not reduce the risk of developing delirium following heart surgery. The study included 210 adults and showed a similar proportion of participants experienced severe episodes of delirium in both the melatonin and placebo groups.
Melatonin is a potential drug for the prevention of bone loss during space flight
Researchers investigated melatonin's role in preventing bone loss during space flight using cultured goldfish scales. They found that melatonin suppresses bone resorption by stimulating osteoblasts to produce CALCITONIN. This suggests melatonin could serve as a prophylactic drug to prevent bone loss of astronauts.
1 in 300 thrives on very-early-to-bed, very-early-to-rise routine
A study led by UCSF found that advanced sleep phase, where people wake up at 4 a.m., may be more common than previously thought, affecting around 1 in 300 adults. This condition is distinct from early rising with normal aging and can improve daytime functioning.
Study looks at melatonin use, sleep patterns in school-age kids
A Dutch observational study examined melatonin use and its association with sleep patterns in school-age children. The results suggest a significant correlation between melatonin intake and improved sleep quality.
'Mystical' psychedelic compound found in normal brains
A study led by Michigan Medicine has revealed the presence of naturally occurring DMT in mammalian brains, sparking interest in its role within human brains. The discovery was made possible by detecting DMT in brain neurons using techniques such as in situ hybridization.