Melatonin: Definition, Synthesis, Absorption, Transport, and Distribution
Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is a hormone of the pineal gland, a part of the diencephalon. It is produced by the pinealocytes in the pineal gland. Melatonin promotes sleep and controls the day-night rhythm. Synthesis Melatonin is produced from the essential amino acid tryptophan via the intermediate serotonin. Synthesis proceeds as follows: L-tryptophan is converted to 5-hydroxytryptophan … Melatonin: Definition, Synthesis, Absorption, Transport, and Distribution