SLENYTO

73-31-4 Interactive image CHEBI:16796 ChEMBL45 872 DB01065 200-797-7200-797-7 C01598 896 JL5DK93RCL DTXSID1022421 InChI=1S/C13H16N2O2/c1-9(16)14-6-5-10-8-15-13-4-3-11(17-2)7-12(10)13/h3-4,7-8,15H,5-6H2,1-2H3,(H,14,16)Key: DRLFMBDRBRZALE-UHFFFAOYSA-N CC(=O)NCCC1=CNC2=C1C=C(C=C2)OC Melatonin, anindoleamine, is anatural compoundproduced by variousorganisms, includingbacteriaandeukaryotes.Its discovery in 1958 byAaron B. Lernerand colleagues stemmed from the isolation of a substance from thepineal glandof cows that could induceskin lighteningincommon frogs. This compound was later identified as ahormonesecreted in thebrainduring the night, playing a crucial role in regulating thesleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm, invertebrates. In vertebrates, melatonin's functions extend tosynchronizingsleep-wake cycles, encompassing sleep-wake timing andblood pressure regulation, as well as controlling seasonal rhythmicity (circannual cycle), which includes reproduction, fattening, molting, and hibernation.Its effects are mediated through the activation ofmelatonin receptorsand its role as anantioxidant.In plants and bacteria, it serves as a defense mechanism againstoxidative stress, indicating its evolutionary significance.Mitochondria, keyorganelles, are the main producers of melatonin,underscoring its "ancient origins" and its fundamental role in protecting the earliest cells fromreactive oxygen species. In addition to itsendogenousfunctions as a hormone and antioxidant, melatonin is also administered exogenously as adietary supplement and medication. Melatonin is used medically primarily for sleep-related problems: for example, prolonged-release melatonin (Circadin) is approved in several countries for short-term treatment of insomnia in people aged 55 years of age or older.It is used in the treatment ofsleep disorders, including insomnia and variouscircadian rhythm sleep disorders.