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Melatonin Receptor Agonists

Meaning

Melatonin Receptor Agonists are a class of pharmaceutical agents designed to mimic the action of the endogenous hormone melatonin by selectively binding to and activating the MT1 and MT2 receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) and other target tissues. These compounds are clinically utilized to treat sleep disorders, particularly insomnia and circadian rhythm disruptions, by reinforcing the natural sleep-wake cycle signal. They are differentiated from simple melatonin supplements by their selective receptor binding, often leading to a more precise and sustained physiological effect. These agonists help restore the body’s internal chronobiological coherence.