Melatonin synthesis is the specific biochemical pathway responsible for the creation of the hormone melatonin, primarily occurring within the pineal gland. This process is exquisitely regulated by the light-dark cycle, making melatonin the principal neuroendocrine transducer of circadian rhythmicity. The hormone’s production and release are fundamental for regulating sleep onset, aligning the body’s internal clock, and providing antioxidant protection.
Origin
The term combines ‘melatonin,’ derived from the Greek melas (black) and tonos (tone), referring to its ability to lighten amphibian skin, with ‘synthesis,’ from the Greek synthesis, meaning “a putting together.” The understanding of this process is a cornerstone of chronobiology, linking environmental light cues directly to endocrine function.
Mechanism
Melatonin is synthesized from the essential amino acid tryptophan through a two-step enzymatic process. Tryptophan is first converted to serotonin, which is then sequentially acted upon by two key enzymes: N-acetyltransferase (NAT) and hydroxyindole-O-methyltransferase (HIOMT). The activity of NAT is the rate-limiting step and is dramatically inhibited by light exposure, ensuring that melatonin production peaks only during the biological night.
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