Scientific Reference

Melatonin

Evidence profile: Review literature

Melatonin is an endogenous indoleamine hormone derived from tryptophan, primarily synthesised in the pineal gland. It plays a central role in regulating circadian rhythms, particularly the sleep–wake cycle, by responding to light–dark signals. In research settings, melatonin is widely used to study sleep regulation, chronobiology, antioxidant activity, and neuroendocrine function. Beyond its role in circadian signalling, melatonin exhibits potent antioxidant properties and influences mitochondrial function and cellular protection pathways.

Published Research

  • Melatonin Use in the ICU: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

    Tang BHY et al. · Critical care medicine · 2025 · Review

    PMID 40662882 — View on PubMed
  • Melatonin as a Novel Drug to Improve Cardiac Function and Quality of Life in Heart Failure Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

    Daliri AS et al. · Clinical cardiology · 2025 · Review

    PMID 40026259 — View on PubMed
  • Interventions for insomnia in cancer patients and survivors-a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis

    Nissen ER et al. · JNCI cancer spectrum · 2024 · Review

    PMID 38781520 — View on PubMed
  • Neonatal magnesium sulphate for neuroprotection: A systematic review and meta-analysis

    Shepherd E et al. · Developmental medicine and child neurology · 2024 · Review

    PMID 38468452 — View on PubMed
  • Effect of melatonin supplementation on cardiometabolic risk factors, oxidative stress and hormonal profile in PCOS patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

    Ziaei S et al. · Journal of ovarian research · 2024 · Review

    PMID 38965577 — View on PubMed
  • Optimizing the Time and Dose of Melatonin as a Sleep-Promoting Drug: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis

    Cruz-Sanabria F et al. · Journal of pineal research · 2024 · Review

    PMID 38888087 — View on PubMed