Concept in Definition ABC

The Melatonin is a hormone Synthesized and released by the pineal gland, it is related to the sleep-wake cycles, as well as the regulation of various circadian rhythms.

The pineal gland is a structure located in the brain, its function is to transmit information about the duration of the day and night. It is connected by a series of nerve pathways with the retina with which it receives signals originated by the cells of the eye that allow you to have an exact knowledge of the degree of illumination in the Exterior.

In response to these signals, it produces and releases into the blood a substance known as Melatonin, which is its messenger to inform the rest of the body about the duration and intensity of ambient light which has an important regulatory effect on the circadian rhythm, especially in the sleep-wake cycle, in which it is related to the induction and maintenance of nocturnal sleep, as well as in the control of body temperature. It also has a regulatory effect on the maturation sexual.

Melatonin has a sleep-inducing effector, while it is necessary for it to be maintained. This makes it used as a treatment for insomnia especially in people who work night shifts, in blind people or those affected by jet lag where it is necessary to resynchronize the rhythm of the dream.

Effect of light and dark on melatonin production

Melatonin is produced shortly after the dark phase has started, it reaches its maximum concentration between 2 and 6 am, from there they begin to decrease returning to their diurnal values ​​before the dawn.

Some factors can affect the production of melatonin

The production of this hormone is affected in various circumstances, which can adversely affect the duration and quality sleep, among these are

Age. As the age increases, the production of melatonin decreases, the kids they tend to have melatonin levels 5 times higher than the elderly.

Exposition to the light. Exposure to bright light interferes with the nocturnal rise in melatonin, which restarts 40 minutes after returning to darkness.

Menstrual cycle. The amount of melatonin produced decreases in the days around ovulation.

Night work. Night work with the consequent exposure to bright lights affects several biological cycles.

Physical exercise. It has been seen that ña physical activity regular is associated with increased melatonin production during the night.

Melatonin and cancer

Melatonin has effects on tumor cells, it is capable of slowing the growth of solid tumors related to the production of hormones such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer and prostate cancer, prolonged the survival of patients with this type of tumors.

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