| 释义 |
melatonin Biochem.|mɛləˈtəʊnɪn|
[f. Gr. µέλα-ς black + serotonin.]
An indole derivative, CH3O·C8H5N·CH2·CH2·NH·CO·CH3, which is formed in the pineal gland in various mammals (principally from serotonin) and may be concerned with the regulation of certain physiological activities, esp. the reproductive cycle.
1958A. B. Lerner et al. in Jrnl. Amer. Chem. Soc. LXXX. 2587/1 We wish to report isolation from beef pineal glands of the active factor that can lighten skin color and inhibit MSH. It is suggested that this substance be called melatonin. Ibid. 2587/2 In preventing darkening of frog skin by MSH, melatonin..was at least..5,000 times as active as serotonin. 1965Sci. Amer. July 60/3 The ability of melatonin to modify gonadal function suggests, but does not prove, that its secretion may have something to do with the timing of the estrus and menstrual cycles. 1968Passmore & Robson Compan. Med. Stud. I. xxiv. 36/1 Evidence from experiments in rats has led to the discovery that the pineal produces a hormone named melatonin, capable of antagonizing the effects of gonadotrophic hormones, slowing the oestrous cycle and reducing the weight of the ovaries. Production of melatonin falls when a rat is in a constantly lit environment... How far these findings relate to man is uncertain; but secreting tumours of the pineal in children lead to delayed sexual development, as if too much melatonin were being released. 1970Nature 30 May 804/1 Melatonin controls diurnal and seasonal adjustments of activity in many species. 1974Sci. Amer. June 62/3 The pineal..makes a hormone called melatonin that inhibits the activity of sex glands. |