Abstract

MELATONIN HORMONE IN HUMAN BODY

Abstract

Melatonin is a hormone produced naturally by the pineal gland a pea sized gland located just beneath the center of the brain-- in response to darkness. It is known that endogenus Melatonin, which occurs naturally in the body, affects Circadian rhythm patterns. Melatonin helps in safeguarding irreplaceable neurons from free-radical attack. Melatonin helps to prevent cataracts. Melatonin reduces risk of ulcers. Melatonin is the most potent, versatile antioxidant.” melatonin produces a remarkable and highly significant improvement of thyroid function, positive changes of gonadotropins and lessening of menopause-related depression. The ulcer healing effects of melatonin in the stomach are also considered to be receptor specific because of melatonin-induced gastroprotection and an acceleration of ulcer healing with an accompanying rise in the GBF in the ulcer area. Melatonin appears to work as an antiestrogen on tumor cells. Low levels of melatonin have been associated with breast cancer occurrence and development. Some recent studies have found that people who work night shifts may be at increased risk for cancer, which could be linked to melatonin levels in the body.

Keywords: melatonin, anti-oxidant, meno-pause related depression, luzindole, antiestrogen.