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Melatonin Production Pathway

Meaning

The Melatonin Production Pathway is the specific, multi-step neuroendocrine process, primarily localized within the pineal gland, responsible for the nocturnal synthesis and secretion of the hormone melatonin from its precursor, serotonin. This pathway is a critical component of the body’s circadian system, translating the environmental darkness signal into a hormonal message that regulates sleep-wake cycles, body temperature, and antioxidant defense. The fidelity of this pathway is highly sensitive to light exposure, especially blue wavelengths, and its function is a key determinant of sleep quality and overall chronobiological health.