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Dai HR, Guo HL, Hu YH, Xu J, Ding XS, Cheng R, Chen F. Precision caffeine therapy for apnea of prematurity and circadian rhythms: New possibilities open up. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1053210. [DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1053210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Caffeine is the globally consumed psychoactive substance and the drug of choice for the treatment of apnea of prematurity (AOP), but its therapeutic effects are highly variable among preterm infants. Many of the molecular underpinnings of the marked individual response have remained elusive yet. Interestingly, the significant association between Clock gene polymorphisms and the response to caffeine therapy offers an opportunity to advance our understanding of potential mechanistic pathways. In this review, we delineate the functions and mechanisms of human circadian rhythms. An up-to-date advance of the formation and ontogeny of human circadian rhythms during the perinatal period are concisely discussed. Specially, we summarize and discuss the characteristics of circadian rhythms in preterm infants. Second, we discuss the role of caffeine consumption on the circadian rhythms in animal models and human, especially in neonates and preterm infants. Finally, we postulate how circadian-based therapeutic initiatives could open new possibilities to promote precision caffeine therapy for the AOP management in preterm infants.
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Changes in the Metabolic Profile of Melatonin Synthesis-Related Indoles during Post-Embryonic Development of the Turkey Pineal Organ. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810872. [PMID: 36142784 PMCID: PMC9502821 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Research on age-dependent changes in pineal activity has been limited almost exclusively to melatonin (MLT). This study determined, for the first time, the alterations occurring in the metabolic profile of MLT synthesis-related indoles during the post-embryonic development period in birds. Turkeys reared under a 12 h light/dark cycle were euthanized at 2 h intervals for 24 h at the ages of 2, 7, 14, and 28 days and 10, 20, 30, and 45 weeks. The results showed prominent changes in the metabolic profile of indoles during development and could be distinguished in four stages. The first stage, from hatching to the age of 2 weeks, was characterized by a decrease in the 5-hydroxytryptophan concentration and an increase in the concentrations of serotonin (5-HT), MLT, 5-methoxyindoleacetic acid, and 5-methoxytryptamine (5-MTAM). During the second stage, around the age of 1 month, the concentrations of N-acetylserotonin (NAS) and MLT reached a maximum. The synthesis and degradation of 5-HT were also the highest. The third stage, around the age of 10 weeks, was characterized by decreased levels of 5-HT (approximately 50%) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid and a high level of 5-MTAM. The last stage, covering the age of 20 to 45 weeks, was characterized by a large decrease in the synthesis, content, and degradation of 5-HT. Despite these changes, there were no prominent differences in the nocturnal levels of NAS and MLT between the third and fourth stages. The concentrations of all tryptophan derivatives showed daily fluctuations until the age of 45 weeks.
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Lu KH, Lu PWA, Lu EWH, Tang CH, Su SC, Lin CW, Yang SF. The potential remedy of melatonin on osteoarthritis. J Pineal Res 2021; 71:e12762. [PMID: 34435392 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common arthritis worldwide, is a degenerative joint disease characterized by progressive cartilage breakdown, subchondral remodeling, and synovial inflammation. Although conventional pharmaceutical therapies aimed to prevent further cartilage loss and joint dysfunction, there are no ideal strategies that target the pathogenesis of OA. Melatonin exhibits a variety of regulatory properties by binding to specific receptors and downstream molecules and exerts a myriad of receptor-independent actions via intracellular targets as a chondrocyte protector, an anti-inflammation modulator, and a free radical scavenger. Melatonin also modulates cartilage regeneration and degradation by directly/indirectly regulating the expression of main circadian clock genes, such as transcriptional activators [brain and muscle aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like protein (Bmal) and circadian locomotor output cycles kaput (Clock)], transcriptional repressors [period circadian regulator (Per)1/2, cryptochrome (Cry)1/2, and Dec2], and nuclear hormone receptors [Rev-Erbs and retinoid acid-related orphan receptors (Rors)]. Owing to its effects on cartilage homeostasis, we propose a potential role for melatonin in the prevention and therapy of OA via the modulation of circadian clock genes, mitigation of chondrocyte apoptosis, anti-inflammatory activity, and scavenging of free radicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ko-Hsiu Lu
- Department of Orthopedics, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | | | - Chih-Hsin Tang
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical and Health Science, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chi Su
- Whole-Genome Research Core Laboratory of Human Diseases, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Linkou and Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Chiao-Wen Lin
- Institute of Oral Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital 402, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shun-Fa Yang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
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Arns M, Kooij JJS, Coogan AN. Review: Identification and Management of Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders as a Transdiagnostic Feature in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2021; 60:1085-1095. [PMID: 33556454 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2020.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sleep disturbances are highly frequent features in a range of child and adolescent psychiatric conditions. However, it is commonly not clear if such sleep problems represent symptomatic features of, comorbidities of, or risk factors for these conditions. It is believed that underlying dysfunction in the daily biological (circadian) clock may play important roles in the etiology of many sleep disorders, and circadian rhythm changes are reported in a number of neuropsychiatric conditions. The aim of this review was to explore the key identifying features of circadian rhythm disorders (CRDs) in child and adolescent psychiatry and address how such disorders may be managed in the clinic. METHOD A narrative review was conducted of the extant literature of CRDs in children and adolescents with psychiatric conditions. RESULTS Key biological and social factors that contribute to CRDs in children and adolescents, and the cognitive and neurobehavioral consequences resulting from insufficient sleep were outlined. The roles of melatonin and other chronotherapeutic and behavioral interventions for the management of CRDs were also outlined. Further, the importance of careful investigation of circadian rhythm abnormalities in shaping the most effective treatment plan according to chronobiological principles was highlighted. CONCLUSION CRDs are common in children and adolescents with psychiatric conditions and arise out of complex interactions between biological and social factors. Careful clinical attention to and management of CRDs in child and adolescent psychiatry have the potential for significant benefit not only in the domain of sleep but also in a range of cognitive, affective, and behavioral outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martijn Arns
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Research Institute Brainclinics, Brainclinics Foundation, Nijmegen, and Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - J J Sandra Kooij
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, and PsyQ, Expertise Center Adult ADHD, the Hague, the Netherlands
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Long J, Guo S, Cai L, Zhang T, Chen W, Xie C. Variation in milk minerals and chemical components corresponding to milking time and lactation day in sows. BIOL RHYTHM RES 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/09291016.2019.1571701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jifei Long
- Hunan Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Swine Production, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Songge Guo
- Hunan Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Swine Production, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Lichuang Cai
- Institute of Biological Resources, Jiangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanchang, China
| | - Tianyong Zhang
- Henan Guang’an Biology Technology Co., Ltd., Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenbin Chen
- Hunan Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Swine Production, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Chunyan Xie
- Hunan Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Swine Production, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
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Melatonin in der Behandlung von Insomnien und Schlaf-Wach-Rhythmusstörungen im Kindes- und Jugendalter. SOMNOLOGIE 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11818-019-0210-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Variations in melatonin levels in preterm and term human breast milk during the first month after delivery. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17984. [PMID: 31784629 PMCID: PMC6884443 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-54530-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The objectives of the present study were to examine the dynamic changes in breast milk melatonin throughout the course of lactation and to explore factors associated with changes in melatonin concentrations and rhythms in both preterm and term breast milk. Breast milk was collected sequentially at 03:00, 09:00, 15:00, and 21:00 in one day. Melatonin was analyzed in 392 breast milk samples from 98 healthy nursing mothers at 0 to 30 days postpartum. In both preterm and term breast milk, the melatonin concentration presented a circadian rhythm with the acrophase at around 03:00. Subgroup analysis showed the peak melatonin concentrations differed significantly across lactation stages, with the highest concentration in the colostrum, followed by transitional and mature breast milk. At 03:00, preterm breast milk had a higher concentration of melatonin than term breast milk in the colostrum (28.67 pg/mL vs. 25.31 pg/mL, p < 0.022), transitional breast milk (24.70 pg/mL vs. 22.55 pg/mL), and mature breast milk (22.37 pg/mL vs. 20.12 pg /mL). Further studies are warranted for their roles and significance on melatonin in breast milk in nutrition and metabolism of neonates.
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Esposito S, Laino D, D'Alonzo R, Mencarelli A, Di Genova L, Fattorusso A, Argentiero A, Mencaroni E. Pediatric sleep disturbances and treatment with melatonin. J Transl Med 2019; 17:77. [PMID: 30871585 PMCID: PMC6419450 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-019-1835-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There are no guidelines concerning the best approach to improving sleep, but it has been shown that it can benefit the affected children and their entire families. The aim of this review is to analyse the efficacy and safety of melatonin in treating pediatric insomnia and sleep disturbances. Main body Sleep disturbances are highly prevalent in children and, without appropriate treatment, can become chronic and last for many years; however, distinguishing sleep disturbances from normal age-related changes can be a challenge for physicians and may delay treatment. Some published studies have shown that melatonin can be safe and effective not only in the case of primary sleep disorders, but also for sleep disorders associated with various neurological conditions. However, there is still uncertainty concerning dosing regimens and a lack of other data. The dose of melatonin should therefore be individualised on the basis of multiple factors, including the severity and type of sleep problem and the associated neurological pathology. Conclusions Melatonin can be safe and effective in treating both primary sleep disorders and the sleep disorders associated with various neurological conditions. However, there is a need for further studies aimed at identifying the sleep disordered infants and children who will benefit most from melatonin treatment, and determining appropriate doses based on the severity and type of disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Esposito
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Piazza Menghini 1, 06129, Perugia, Italy.
| | - Daniela Laino
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Piazza Menghini 1, 06129, Perugia, Italy
| | - Renato D'Alonzo
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Piazza Menghini 1, 06129, Perugia, Italy
| | - Annalisa Mencarelli
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Piazza Menghini 1, 06129, Perugia, Italy
| | - Lorenza Di Genova
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Piazza Menghini 1, 06129, Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonella Fattorusso
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Piazza Menghini 1, 06129, Perugia, Italy
| | - Alberto Argentiero
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Mencaroni
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Piazza Menghini 1, 06129, Perugia, Italy
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Bach V, Delanaud S, Barcat L, Bodin E, Tourneux P, Libert JP. Distal skin vasodilation in sleep preparedness, and its impact on thermal status in preterm neonates. Sleep Med 2019; 60:26-30. [PMID: 30777678 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2018.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Prior to sleep onset in human adults, distal body temperatures change progressively from wakefulness levels (low skin temperatures and a high core temperature) to sleep levels (high skin temperatures and a low core temperature) due to distal skin vasodilation and greater body cooling. It is not known whether this sleep preparedness exists in preterm neonates, even though sleep has a key role in neonatal health and neurodevelopment. The present study's objectives were to determine whether sleep preparedness (as observed in adults) can be evidenced in preterm neonates, and to assess repercussions on thermal stress. METHODS During a 12-h night-time polysomnography session, skin temperatures (recorded with an infrared camera), sleep, and wakefulness episodes were measured in 18 nine-day-old preterm neonates. RESULTS Fifteen wakefulness episodes were considered. Our results highlighted significant pre-sleep distal skin vasodilation (mainly at the foot: an increase of 0.38 °C in the 20 min preceding sleep onset) for the first time in preterm neonates. This vasodilation occurred even though (1) most factors known to influence pre-sleep vasodilation in adults were not present in these neonates, and (2) the neonates were nursed in a nearly constant thermal environment. The vasodilatation-related increase in body heat loss corresponded to a 0.15°C/h fall in mean body temperature (calculated using partitional calorimetry). CONCLUSION Compensation for this body heat loss and the maintenance of body homeothermia would require a 4% increase in metabolic heat production. In neonates, this type of energy expenditure cannot be maintained for a long period of time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Véronique Bach
- PériTox, UMR_I 01, Jules Verne University of Picardy, CURS, Présidence UPJV, Amiens, France.
| | - Stéphane Delanaud
- PériTox, UMR_I 01, Jules Verne University of Picardy, CURS, Présidence UPJV, Amiens, France
| | - Lucie Barcat
- PériTox, UMR_I 01, Jules Verne University of Picardy, CURS, Présidence UPJV, Amiens, France; Médecine Néonatale et Réanimation Pédiatrique, Pôle Femme Couple Enfant, CHU Amiens, Amiens, France
| | - Emilie Bodin
- PériTox, UMR_I 01, Jules Verne University of Picardy, CURS, Présidence UPJV, Amiens, France; Neurologie Pédiatrique, Pôle Femme Couple Enfant, CHU Amiens, Amiens, France
| | - Pierre Tourneux
- PériTox, UMR_I 01, Jules Verne University of Picardy, CURS, Présidence UPJV, Amiens, France; Médecine Néonatale et Réanimation Pédiatrique, Pôle Femme Couple Enfant, CHU Amiens, Amiens, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Libert
- PériTox, UMR_I 01, Jules Verne University of Picardy, CURS, Présidence UPJV, Amiens, France
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Cipolla-Neto J, Amaral FGD. Melatonin as a Hormone: New Physiological and Clinical Insights. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:990-1028. [PMID: 30215696 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 318] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin is a ubiquitous molecule present in almost every live being from bacteria to humans. In vertebrates, besides being produced in peripheral tissues and acting as an autocrine and paracrine signal, melatonin is centrally synthetized by a neuroendocrine organ, the pineal gland. Independently of the considered species, pineal hormone melatonin is always produced during the night and its production and secretory episode duration are directly dependent on the length of the night. As its production is tightly linked to the light/dark cycle, melatonin main hormonal systemic integrative action is to coordinate behavioral and physiological adaptations to the environmental geophysical day and season. The circadian signal is dependent on its daily production regularity, on the contrast between day and night concentrations, and on specially developed ways of action. During its daily secretory episode, melatonin coordinates the night adaptive physiology through immediate effects and primes the day adaptive responses through prospective effects that will only appear at daytime, when melatonin is absent. Similarly, the annual history of the daily melatonin secretory episode duration primes the central nervous/endocrine system to the seasons to come. Remarkably, maternal melatonin programs the fetuses' behavior and physiology to cope with the environmental light/dark cycle and season after birth. These unique ways of action turn melatonin into a biological time-domain-acting molecule. The present review focuses on the above considerations, proposes a putative classification of clinical melatonin dysfunctions, and discusses general guidelines to the therapeutic use of melatonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Cipolla-Neto
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Ali AA, Ahmed HI, Barakat BM, Elariny HA. Impact of Sensory Contact Model on Psychosocial Stress and Correlation with Immunological Changes. JOURNAL OF EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN PHARMACOLOGY 2018; 3:19-29. [DOI: 10.14218/jerp.2017.00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Lopp S, Navidi W, Achermann P, LeBourgeois M, Diniz Behn C. Developmental Changes in Ultradian Sleep Cycles across Early Childhood. J Biol Rhythms 2017; 32:64-74. [PMID: 28088873 PMCID: PMC5584621 DOI: 10.1177/0748730416685451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Nocturnal human sleep is composed of cycles between rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and non-REM (NREM) sleep. In adults, the structure of ultradian cycles between NREM and REM sleep is well characterized; however, less is known about the developmental trajectories of ultradian sleep cycles across early childhood. Cross-sectional studies indicate that the rapid ultradian cycling of active-quiet sleep in infancy shifts to a more adult-like pattern of NREM-REM sleep cycling by the school-age years, yet longitudinal studies elucidating the details of this transition are scarce. To address this gap, we examined ultradian cycling during nocturnal sleep following 13 h of prior wakefulness in 8 healthy children at 3 longitudinal points: 2Y (2.5-3.0 years of age), 3Y (3.5-4.0 years of age), and 5Y (5.5-6.0 years of age). We found that the length of ultradian cycles increased with age as a result of increased NREM sleep episode duration. In addition, we observed a significant decrease in the number of NREM sleep episodes as well as a nonsignificant trend for a decrease in the number of cycles with increasing age. Together, these findings suggest a concurrent change in which cycle duration increases and the number of cycles decreases across development. We also found that, consistent with data from adolescents and adults, the duration of NREM sleep episodes decreased with time since lights-off whereas the duration of REM sleep episodes increased over this time period. These results indicate the presence of circadian modulation of nocturnal sleep in preschool children. In addition to characterizing changes in ultradian cycling in healthy children ages 2 to 5 years, this work describes a developmental model that may provide insights into the emergence of normal adult REM sleep regulatory circuitry as well as potential trajectories of dysregulated ultradian cycles such as those associated with affective disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Lopp
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado, USA
| | - William Navidi
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado, USA
| | - Peter Achermann
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Section of Chronobiology and Sleep Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Monique LeBourgeois
- Sleep and Development Laboratory, Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Cecilia Diniz Behn
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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González-Candia A, Veliz M, Araya C, Quezada S, Ebensperger G, Serón-Ferré M, Reyes RV, Llanos AJ, Herrera EA. Potential adverse effects of antenatal melatonin as a treatment for intrauterine growth restriction: findings in pregnant sheep. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 215:245.e1-7. [PMID: 26902986 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.02.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Revised: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine growth restriction is a condition in which the fetus has a birthweight and/or length <10th percentile for the gestational age. Intrauterine growth restriction can be associated with various causes, among which is low uteroplacental perfusion and chronic hypoxia during gestation. Often, intrauterine growth-restricted fetuses have increased oxidative stress; therefore, agents that decrease oxidative stress and increase utero, placental, and umbilical perfusion have been proposed as a beneficial therapeutic strategy. In this scenario, melatonin acts as an umbilical vasodilator and a potent antioxidant that has not been evaluated in pregnancies under chronic hypoxia that induce fetal growth restriction. However, this neurohormone has been proposed as a pharmacologic therapy for complicated pregnancies. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to determine the effects of prenatal administration of melatonin during the last trimester of pregnancy on the biometry of the growth-restricted lambs because of developmental hypoxia. Further, we aimed to determine melatonin and cortisol levels and oxidative stress markers in plasma of pregnant ewes during the treatment. STUDY DESIGN High-altitude pregnant sheep received either vehicle (n = 5; 5 mL 1.4% ethanol) or melatonin (n = 7; 10 mg/kg(-1)day(-1) in 5 mL 1.4% ethanol) daily during the last one-third of gestation. Maternal plasma levels of melatonin, cortisol, antioxidant capacity, and oxidative stress were determined along treatment. At birth, neonates were examined, weighed, and measured (biparietal diameter, abdominal diameter, and crown-rump length). RESULTS Antenatal treatment with melatonin markedly decreased neonatal biometry and weight at birth. Additionally, melatonin treatment increased the length of gestation by 7.5% and shifted the time of delivery. Furthermore, the prenatal treatment doubled plasma levels of melatonin and cortisol and significantly improved the antioxidant capacity of the pregnant ewes. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that antenatal melatonin induces further intrauterine growth restriction but improves the maternal plasma antioxidant capacity. Additional studies should address the efficiency and safety of antenatal melatonin before clinical attempts on humans.
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Bruni O, Alonso-Alconada D, Besag F, Biran V, Braam W, Cortese S, Moavero R, Parisi P, Smits M, Van der Heijden K, Curatolo P. Current role of melatonin in pediatric neurology: clinical recommendations. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2015; 19:122-33. [PMID: 25553845 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2014.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Melatonin, an indoleamine secreted by the pineal gland, plays a key role in regulating circadian rhythm. It has chronobiotic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and free radical scavenging properties. METHODS A conference in Rome in 2014 aimed to establish consensus on the roles of melatonin in children and on treatment guidelines. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION The best evidence for efficacy is in sleep onset insomnia and delayed sleep phase syndrome. It is most effective when administered 3-5 h before physiological dim light melatonin onset. There is no evidence that extended-release melatonin confers advantage over immediate release. Many children with developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and intellectual disability have sleep disturbance and can benefit from melatonin treatment. Melatonin decreases sleep onset latency and increases total sleep time but does not decrease night awakenings. Decreased CYP 1A2 activity, genetically determined or from concomitant medication, can slow metabolism, with loss of variation in melatonin level and loss of effect. Decreasing the dose can remedy this. Animal work and limited human data suggest that melatonin does not exacerbate seizures and might decrease them. Melatonin has been used successfully in treating headache. Animal work has confirmed a neuroprotective effect of melatonin, suggesting a role in minimising neuronal damage from birth asphyxia; results from human studies are awaited. Melatonin can also be of value in the performance of sleep EEGs and as sedation for brainstem auditory evoked potential assessments. No serious adverse effects of melatonin in humans have been identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliviero Bruni
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniel Alonso-Alconada
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK; Department of Cell Biology and Histology, University of the Basque Country, Spain
| | - Frank Besag
- South Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, Bedfordshire, & Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Valerie Biran
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Hôpital Robert Debré, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Univ Paris Diderot, 75019 Paris, France; Univ Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM, U1141, 75019 Paris, France
| | - Wiebe Braam
- 's Heeren Loo, Department Advisium, Wekerom, The Netherlands; Governor Kremers Centre, University Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Samuele Cortese
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK; School of Medicine, and the Centre for ADHD and Neurodevelopmental Disorders Across the Lifespan, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, UK; New York University Child Study Center, NY, USA
| | - Romina Moavero
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Systems Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy; Neurology Unit, Neuroscience Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Pasquale Parisi
- Child Neurology-Chair of Pediatrics, c/o Sant'Andrea Hospital, NESMOS Department, Faculty of Medicine & Psychology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Marcel Smits
- Governor Kremers Centre, University Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Sleep-wake Disorders and Chronobiology, Hospital Gelderse Vallei Ede, The Netherlands
| | - Kristiaan Van der Heijden
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition & Institute of Education and Child Studies, Leiden University, The Netherlands
| | - Paolo Curatolo
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Systems Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy.
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15
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Human colostrum melatonin exhibits a day-night variation and modulates the activity of colostral phagocytes. J Appl Biomed 2013. [DOI: 10.2478/v10136-012-0039-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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16
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Melatonin effects on hard tissues: bone and tooth. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:10063-74. [PMID: 23665905 PMCID: PMC3676828 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140510063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2013] [Revised: 04/29/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is an endogenous hormone rhythmically produced in the pineal gland under the control of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) and the light/dark cycle. This indole plays an important role in many physiological processes including circadian entrainment, blood pressure regulation, seasonal reproduction, ovarian physiology, immune function, etc. Recently, the investigation and applications of melatonin in the hard tissues bone and tooth have received great attention. Melatonin has been investigated relative to bone remolding, osteoporosis, osseointegration of dental implants and dentine formation. In the present review, we discuss the large body of published evidence and review data of melatonin effects on hard tissues, specifically, bone and tooth.
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17
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Marseglia L, Aversa S, Barberi I, Salpietro CD, Cusumano E, Speciale A, Saija A, Romeo C, Trimarchi G, Reiter RJ, Gitto E. High endogenous melatonin levels in critically ill children: a pilot study. J Pediatr 2013; 162:357-60. [PMID: 22910100 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2012.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2012] [Revised: 06/15/2012] [Accepted: 07/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the serum melatonin levels in critically ill pediatric patients and to test the effect of light on the melatonin's circadian rhythm. Data on melatonin secretion in critically ill pediatric subjects are lacking. STUDY DESIGN We investigated the serum melatonin levels of 16 sedated and mechanically ventilated patients in a pediatric intensive care unit. Children (mean age, 5.1 ± 3.1 years) were randomly assigned to a dark-exposed or to a light-exposed group to evaluate the effects of light on serum melatonin concentrations. Blood samples for serum melatonin analysis were collected at 10 p.m., 1 a.m., 3 a.m., 5 a.m., 8 a.m., and 12 p.m. RESULTS The melatonin circadian rhythm was severely disrupted in critically ill children; light exposure lowered serum melatonin even in a context of highly altered circadian cycle; melatonin peaks were greater for healthy age-matched children. CONCLUSION The high melatonin levels in the critically ill children may be a response to counteract the elevated oxidative stress associated with serious diseases. Whether these elevated melatonin levels confer any beneficial effects in pediatric critically ill patients remains unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Marseglia
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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18
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Hardeland R, Madrid JA, Tan DX, Reiter RJ. Melatonin, the circadian multioscillator system and health: the need for detailed analyses of peripheral melatonin signaling. J Pineal Res 2012; 52:139-66. [PMID: 22034907 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2011.00934.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 299] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Evidence is accumulating regarding the importance of circadian core oscillators, several associated factors, and melatonin signaling in the maintenance of health. Dysfunction of endogenous clocks, melatonin receptor polymorphisms, age- and disease-associated declines of melatonin likely contribute to numerous diseases including cancer, metabolic syndrome, diabetes type 2, hypertension, and several mood and cognitive disorders. Consequences of gene silencing, overexpression, gene polymorphisms, and deviant expression levels in diseases are summarized. The circadian system is a complex network of central and peripheral oscillators, some of them being relatively independent of the pacemaker, the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Actions of melatonin on peripheral oscillators are poorly understood. Various lines of evidence indicate that these clocks are also influenced or phase-reset by melatonin. This includes phase differences of core oscillator gene expression under impaired melatonin signaling, effects of melatonin and melatonin receptor knockouts on oscillator mRNAs or proteins. Cross-connections between melatonin signaling pathways and oscillator proteins, including associated factors, are discussed in this review. The high complexity of the multioscillator system comprises alternate or parallel oscillators based on orthologs and paralogs of the core components and a high number of associated factors with varying tissue-specific importance, which offers numerous possibilities for interactions with melatonin. It is an aim of this review to stimulate research on melatonin signaling in peripheral tissues. This should not be restricted to primary signal molecules but rather include various secondarily connected pathways and discriminate between direct effects of the pineal indoleamine at the target organ and others mediated by modulation of oscillators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rüdiger Hardeland
- Johann Friedrich Blumenbach Institute of Zoology and Anthropology, University of Göttingen, Germany.
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19
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Borjigin J, Zhang LS, Calinescu AA. Circadian regulation of pineal gland rhythmicity. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 349:13-9. [PMID: 21782887 PMCID: PMC3202635 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2011] [Revised: 06/30/2011] [Accepted: 07/01/2011] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The pineal gland is a neuroendocrine organ of the brain. Its main task is to synthesize and secrete melatonin, a nocturnal hormone with diverse physiological functions. This review will focus on the central and pineal mechanisms in generation of mammalian pineal rhythmicity including melatonin production. In particular, this review covers the following topics: (1) local control of serotonin and melatonin rhythms; (2) neurotransmitters involved in central control of melatonin; (3) plasticity of the neural circuit controlling melatonin production; (4) role of clock genes in melatonin formation; (5) phase control of pineal rhythmicity; (6) impact of light at night on pineal rhythms; and (7) physiological function of the pineal rhythmicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimo Borjigin
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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20
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Praninskienė R, Dumalakienė I, Kemežys R, Mauricas M, Jučaitė A. Diurnal melatonin patterns in children: ready to apply in clinical practice? Pediatr Neurol 2012; 46:70-6. [PMID: 22264699 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2011.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2011] [Accepted: 11/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Experimental and clinical studies suggest that endogenous melatonin plays an important role in pediatric sleep regulation. This finding led to the introduction of exogenous melatonin to treat sleep disturbances. Optimizing the treatment algorithm involves a review of melatonin measurements and interpretations in clinical practice. Diurnal patterns of salivary melatonin and urinary metabolite 6-sulfatoxymelatonin were investigated in 29 children and adolescents (age, 5.5-17.3 years) by measuring concentrations every 3 hours. Relationships between melatonin parameters (peak concentrations and area under the time curve) and anthropometric measures (height, weight, and body mass index), age, and sleep scores (Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children) were investigated. High interindividual variability was evident in melatonin diurnal profiles. Melatonin production (adjusted to body weight) decreased with age and sexual maturation (P < 0.00). Both salivary melatonin and its urinary metabolite measurements can be used to evaluate the melatonin system in children. However, the high interindividual variability of diurnal melatonin concentrations challenges clinical applications in regard to diagnostic purposes and the criteria for initiating exogenous melatonin therapy. Further investigations and the development of criteria for clinical evaluations of the pediatric melatonin system are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rūta Praninskienė
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Vilnius University Children's Hospital, Vilnius, Lithuania
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21
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Abstract
Lack of knowledge about the pathophysiology of infantile colic limits the development of effective drugs and treatment modalities including acupuncture. Acupuncture research has targeted the baby without considering the mother. However, the pathophysiological clues indicate that infantile colic is a shared pathology between the mother and the baby, especially in the case of breastfeeding mothers. A new theory proposed in this paper involves levels of the cytokine tumour necrosis factor α in the mother's milk and its influences on melatonin and serotonin metabolism in the baby as major components of the pathophysiology of infantile colic. These can be normalised by applying acupuncture to the breastfeeding mother alone or also to the baby.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf Ozgur Cakmak
- Department of Anatomy, Yeditepe University School of Medicine, Istanbul 34725, Turkey.
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22
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Vitale AA, Pomilio AB, Cañellas CO, Vitale MG, Putz EM, Ciprian-Ollivier J. In Vivo Long-Term Kinetics of Radiolabeled N,N-Dimethyltryptamine and Tryptamine. J Nucl Med 2011; 52:970-7. [DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.110.083246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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23
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Potts AL, Cheeseman JF, Warman GR. Circadian rhythms and their development in children: implications for pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in anesthesia. Paediatr Anaesth 2011; 21:238-46. [PMID: 20561229 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9592.2010.03343.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The influence of time-of-day on the action and toxicity of drugs may be an important factor in the design of pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) studies, and the interpretation of data resulting from these studies. Time-of-day can have a profound influence on the action of drugs. In some settings (e.g. cancer chemotherapy), the timing of drug administration has been utilized to maximize therapeutic effect and minimize toxicity. Time-of-day variation in the action of anesthetic drugs has been clearly demonstrated in adults. For example, local anesthetic action is longest during the afternoon, and neuromuscular blockade by rocuronium lasts one-third longer in the morning than the afternoon. Circadian rhythms develop over the first months and years of life. Robust rhythms in hormone production (e.g. melatonin and cortisol) are seen at approximately 3 months of age, but it remains unclear as to when daily rhythms in drug PK and PD first appear. Here, we review the evidence for time-of-day effects in anesthetic drugs in adults and children and outline the potential influence this has on pediatric anesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L Potts
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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24
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Shinohara H, Kodama H. Relationship between circadian salivary melatonin levels and sleep-wake behavior in infants. Pediatr Int 2011; 53:29-35. [PMID: 20557471 DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-200x.2010.03186.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There have been calls for more aggressive intervention for infants with failure in development of a sleep-wake rhythm. If development of the 'biological clock' in infants can be assessed by measuring melatonin, this may provide a useful indicator of the sleep-wake rhythm development. Thus, we investigated relationship between circadian salivary melatonin concentrations and sleep-wake behavioral parameters in infants. METHODS Sixty-seven mothers who had infants aged 3-15 months were requested to record sleep-wake behavior of their baby for 2 days, and to collect their baby's saliva four times daily in the morning (06:00-09:00 h), noon (11:00-13:00 h), evening (16:00-18:00 h), and night (19:00-22:00 h) for measurement of melatonin concentrations by ELISA. RESULTS The mean melatonin concentrations of the saliva were: morning 40 ± 4 pg/mL, noon 14 ± 3 pg/mL, evening 15 ± 3 pg/mL, and night 23 ± 4 pg/mL. The melatonin concentrations, at each measurement point, were highest in infants aged 3-5 months, and decreased as age increased. Morning melatonin concentrations showed a negative correlation with nocturnal sleep duration (P<0.05). Increased morning concentrations were related to early waking time (P<0.05). In infants with open air baths on most days, evening and night melatonin concentrations were significantly lower (P<0.05). CONCLUSION Salivary melatonin concentrations in infants between 06:00 and 22:00 decreased by age, and elevation of morning values may indicate an immature sleep-wake rhythm. Frequent open air baths may contribute to decreased melatonin levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitomi Shinohara
- Department of Maternity Child Nursing, Akita University Graduate School of Health Science, Akita, Japan
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25
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Piccione G, Giannetto C. State of the art on daily rhythms of physiology and behaviour in horses. BIOL RHYTHM RES 2011. [DOI: 10.1080/09291016.2010.491247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Piccione
- a Department of Experimental Sciences and Applied Biotechnologies , Laboratory of Veterinary Chronophysiology, University of Messina , Messina, 98168, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- a Department of Experimental Sciences and Applied Biotechnologies , Laboratory of Veterinary Chronophysiology, University of Messina , Messina, 98168, Italy
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26
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França EL, Nicomedes TDR, Calderon IDMP, França ACH. Time-dependent alterations of soluble and cellular components in human milk. BIOL RHYTHM RES 2010. [DOI: 10.1080/09291010903407441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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27
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Abstract
A study on melatonin rhythm in children with generalized idiopathic epilepsy and simple fever is presented in this article. A population of 40 children was divided into 4 groups, namely, epilepsy, febrile seizure, and 2 control groups. Salivary melatonin was measured by means of radioimmunoassay. Friedman 2-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Wilcoxon tests were employed to assess the existence of melatonin rhythm. Comparison across groups was performed by means of ANOVA and Mann-Whitney tests. Higher melatonin levels were found at night, with a peak at 04:00 h in all groups. Significant diurnal rhythm was also detected for these levels. No significant overall differences between case and control groups were found for melatonin levels, though patients showed lower peak melatonin values than controls at 04:00 h with a significant difference in the febrile seizure group (10.70 vs 19.5 pg/mL respectively; P<.04). Our data support the presence of diurnal rhythm in blood melatonin concentrations in children with epileptic and febrile seizures. Comparison between case and control groups showed lower peak concentrations in the febrile seizure group with respect to healthy controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio Ardura
- Chronobiology Research Group, University of Valladolid School of Medicine, Valladolid, Spain
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28
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Uberos J, Romero J, Molina-Carballo A, Muñoz-Hoyos A. Melatonin and elimination of kynurenines in children with Down's syndrome. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2010; 23:277-82. [PMID: 20480727 DOI: 10.1515/jpem.2010.23.3.277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heightened activity of superoxide dimutase is an effect derived from the gene dose in the trisomy of Down's syndrome (DS), and has been related to the increased production of hydrogen peroxide and with greater lipid peroxidation. Many of the degenerative changes observed in patients with DS have been associated with the pathological effects of free radicals, and for this reason it is of interest to determine the levels present in these patients of powerful antioxidant molecules such as melatonin, and of metabolites with important neuroprotector and neurotoxic consequences such as those derived from the kynurenine pathway. PATIENTS AND METHODS A study was made of 15 children with DS, together with a control group of 15 non-DS children, matched for age and sex, examined at the Hospital Costa del Sol, Marbella, Spain. Serum melatonin and serotonin were analyzed by RIA; urinary tryptophan metabolites (kynurenine pathway) were determined during periods of light and darkness (09.00-21.00 h and 21.00-9.00 h) by thin-layer chromatography. RESULTS The mean values of serotonin and melatonin were found to be lower in the patients with DS, although the level of nocturnal secretion of melatonin was higher. Urinary excretion of kynurenine was lower in the patients with DS, although greater quantities of kynurenic acid and anthranilic acid were excreted. CONCLUSIONS Patients with DS present levels of plasma melatonin and urinary kynurenine that are lower than the corresponding levels in the control population, together with higher values of kynurenic acid and anthranilic acid. These circumstances constitute an added risk to these patients of damage by free radicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Uberos
- Departamento de Pediatría, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Granada, Granada, Spain.
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29
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Melatonin secretion during postnatal development in wild and domestic female lambs. Anim Reprod Sci 2010; 119:24-30. [PMID: 20060240 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2009.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2009] [Revised: 12/02/2009] [Accepted: 12/07/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study examines the patterns of melatonin secretion during postnatal development in wild (mouflon; n = 7) and domestic (Spanish Merino; n = 6) female lambs under their natural photoperiod conditions. The aim was to determine whether these types of sheep which differ in the timing of puberty, also differ in the establishment of daily melatonin secretory rhythms and/or in the nocturnal plasma melatonin secretion. In addition, the time when the lambs first reached nocturnal levels of melatonin similar to adults was also evaluated. For this purpose, the melatonin secretion in lambs was compared with those of their mothers. A day/night (D/N) difference in plasma melatonin concentration was noticed as early as 1 day after birth in the Merino female lambs (D: 5.9 +/- 1.0 pg/ml compared to N: 22.0 +/- 3.3 pg/ml; p < 0.05), and by 1 week after birth in the mouflon female lambs (D: 4.9 +/- 0.3 pg/ml compared to N: 56.9 +/- 15.3 pg/ml; p < 0.05). An effect of the genotype (p < 0.05) and age (p < 0.01) was detected on mean nocturnal plasma melatonin concentrations, which were lower in the Merino than in the mouflon lambs. Night-time plasma concentration of melatonin was also high in mouflon than in Merino mothers (p < 0.05). No differences were detected between the wild genotype and the domestic one in the time when the lambs first reached nocturnal levels of melatonin similar to those of their mothers.
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30
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Burnham MM. The ontogeny of diurnal rhythmicity in bed-sharing and solitary-sleeping infants: a preliminary report. INFANT AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT 2007. [DOI: 10.1002/icd.520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Ardura-Fernandez J, Andres De Llano JM, Garmendia-Leiza JR, Agapito T. Melatonin rhythm in children with enuresis. BJU Int 2006; 99:413-5. [PMID: 17034494 DOI: 10.1111/j.1464-410x.2006.06531.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the circadian rhythm of melatonin in children with enuresis. PATIENTS AND METHODS Twenty-five children, divided into two groups (enuretic patients and controls) were assessed; salivary samples were collected to measure melatonin by radioimmunoassay using commercial kits. Friedman two-way anova and Wilcoxon tests were used to assess the circadian rhythm of melatonin, and anova with between-patient factors and Mann-Whitney tests to compare melatonin values and groups. RESULTS Both groups had statistically significant differences in melatonin concentration during the 24-h period (both P < 0.001), with a circadian rhythm; the highest values were always at approximately 04.00 hours. There were no significant differences overall in melatonin values between cases and controls, but patients had lower peak values than controls at 04.00 hours, and higher melatonin levels at 24.00 hours, but with no significant differences. CONCLUSION There was some evidence for minor disturbances in the circadian rhythm of melatonin as a cause of enuresis, but the rhythm was not grossly disrupted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio Ardura-Fernandez
- GIR Cronobiologia, Cellular Biology and Physiology, Universidad De Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain.
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Whitaker-Azmitia PM. Behavioral and cellular consequences of increasing serotonergic activity during brain development: a role in autism? Int J Dev Neurosci 2004; 23:75-83. [PMID: 15730889 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2004.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2004] [Accepted: 07/30/2004] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothesis explored in this review is that the high levels of serotonin in the blood seen in some autistic children (the so-called hyperserotonemia of autism) may lead to some of the behavioral and cellular changes also observed in the disorder. At early stages of development, when the blood-brain Barrier is not yet fully formed, the high levels of serotonin in the blood can enter the brain of a developing fetus and cause loss of serotonin terminals through a known negative feedback function of serotonin during development. The loss of serotonin innervation persists throughout subsequent development and the symptoms of autism appear. A review of the basic scientific literature on prenatal treatments affecting serotonin is given, in support of this hypothesis, with an emphasis on studies using the serotonin agonist, 5-methoxytryptamine (5-MT). In work using 5-MT to mimic hyperserotonemia, Sprague-Dawley rats are treated from gestational day 12 until postnatal 20. In published reports, these animals have been found to have a significant loss of serotonin terminals, decreased metabolic activity in cortex, changes in columnar development in cortex, changes in serotonin receptors, and "autistic-like" behaviors. In preliminary cellular findings given in this review, the animals have also been found to have cellular changes in two relevant brain regions: 1. Central nucleus of the amygdala, a brain region involved in fear-responding, where an increase in calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) was found 2. Paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, a brain region involved in social memory and bonding, where a decrease in oxytocin was found. Both of these cellular changes could result from loss of serotonin innervation, possibly due to loss of terminal outgrowth from the same cells of the raphe nuclei. Thus, increased serotonergic activity during development could damage neurocircuitry involved in emotional responding to social stressors and may have relevance to the symptoms of autism.
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Ardura J, Andres J, Aragon MP, Agapito T. Congenital anophthalmia: a circadian rhythm study. Chronobiol Int 2004; 21:315-21. [PMID: 15332350 DOI: 10.1081/cbi-120037809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
A circadian rhythm of heart rate and respiratory rate was seen at 1, 8, and 12 months of age in an infant born without ocular tissue, which supports the possibility that the time cues were nonphotic. No melatonin circadian rhythm was detected at any age up to 9 years of age, and this is most likely associated with the anophthalmia and lack of photic input to the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Usually circadian organization is present after the neonatal period and approaches adult levels with development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio Ardura
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital, University of Valladolid, Spain.
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34
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Murcia García J, Muñoz Hoyos A, Molina Carballo A, Fernández García J, Narbona López E, Uberos Fernández J. Pubertad y melatonina. An Pediatr (Barc) 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s1695-4033(02)78685-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Garcia J, Rosen G, Mahowald M. Circadian rhythms and circadian rhythm disorders in children and adolescents. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2001; 8:229-40. [PMID: 11768785 DOI: 10.1053/spen.2001.29044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
A clinically applicable review of circadian rhythm physiology is presented, including a detailed examination of the interaction of circadian and homeostatic systems and the maturation of the circadian system from preconception through adolescence. Emphasis is placed on the clinical evaluation gathering information through the history, sleep log, and if necessary, actigraphy and polysomnography. Circadian disorders, including advanced sleep phase syndrome, circadian disorders seen in blind children, delayed sleep phase syndrome, and non-24-hour sleep phase are described. Case descriptions of each are provided. Treatment and interventions for these disorders are described, including the importance of education, light therapy, sleep-wake schedule adjustments, and the occasional use of medications, such as sedative hypnotics and melatonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Garcia
- Minnesota Regional Sleep Disorder Center, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis 55415, USA
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36
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Muñoz-Hoyos A, Jaldo R, Molina-Carballo A, Escames G, Macías M, Fernández-Garcia JM, Reiter RJ, Acuña-Castroviejo D. Characterization of nocturnal ultradian rhythms of melatonin in children with growth hormone-dependent and independent growth delay. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2001; 86:1181-7. [PMID: 11238506 DOI: 10.1210/jcem.86.3.7319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
To assess the existence of a possible nocturnal ultradian rhythm of melatonin in children, we analyzed 28 pediatric patients (mean age, 9.08 +/- 2.2 yr) with GH-dependent and GH-independent growth delay. Plasma melatonin was measured by RIA in children sampled every 30 min between 2100-0900 h. Statistical analysis consisted of cluster analysis to examine the presence of peaks and troughs. The pattern of melatonin levels was related to the cause of growth delay, although the means of the nocturnal concentrations of melatonin were similar in all children. Interestingly, children with a GH deficit showed a nearly normal melatonin profile, whereas children with normal GH values but abnormal growth displayed atypical profiles of melatonin. The results also prove the existence of an ultradian rhythm of melatonin in most of the patients studied. The ultradian rhythm of melatonin in children was characterized by irregular interburst intervals, thus differing from the rhythm previously described in adults that had an almost constant pulse frequency. Moreover, the existence of low and high melatonin producers was revealed in the study, a feature unrelated to the cause of growth delay. The group of children with a GH deficit showed the lowest values of integrated melatonin production and of the area of peaks and troughs. These results prove that children exhibit an ultradian rhythm of melatonin like that in adults. Whereas it is not clear whether the episodic production of melatonin is required for its biological actions, the existence of irregular pulses may reflect endocrine influences at this age and/or the immaturity of the intrinsic pulse generator.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Muñoz-Hoyos
- Departamento de Pediatría, Instituto de Biotecnología, E-18012 Granada, Spain
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37
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Abstract
This review discusses the development of melatonin rhythmicity in humans and the factors that may alter the appearance of melatonin rhythms. The literature on the possible consequences of disordered melatonin production in relation to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, fetal origins of adult disease, and scoliosis is critically reviewed. Finally, the emerging use of melatonin to correct sleep disorders in infants and children is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Kennaway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Adelaide, South Australia
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38
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Weaver DR. The roles of melatonin in development. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2000; 460:199-214. [PMID: 10810515 DOI: 10.1007/0-306-46814-x_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- D R Weaver
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, USA.
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Peleg L, Wilf-Miron R, Goldman B, Ashkenazi I. Differences in rhythms of enzymatic activity of maternal and fetal blood. Chronobiol Int 2000; 17:221-8. [PMID: 10757466 DOI: 10.1081/cbi-100101045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Blood specimens were obtained at different daily times from the umbilical cord and brachial vein from 53 women within 10 minutes after delivery. Enzyme activities were measured in the white blood cells (WBCs) and serum of each sample. For each enzyme, the results were grouped according to sampling (delivery) times and arrayed to form a 24h time series. Separate time series were generated for maternal and fetal enzymes. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and cosine best-fit analyses were applied to elucidate significant differences between enzyme activity patterns of mothers and fetuses with regard to time dependency, number of peaks, and acrophases. These and previously documented results indicate that not all mothers and fetuses have rhythms that are concordant. For some enzymes of fetuses, the activity rhythms differ in phase and shape of the time series pattern from those of the mothers; for other enzymes, the activity rhythms develop after birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Peleg
- Genetic Institute, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
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Waldhauser F, Kovács J, Reiter E. Age-related changes in melatonin levels in humans and its potential consequences for sleep disorders. Exp Gerontol 1998; 33:759-72. [PMID: 9951620 DOI: 10.1016/s0531-5565(98)00054-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Prior to three months of age there is little melatonin (MLT) secretion in humans. MLT production then commences, becomes circadian, and reaches its highest nocturnal blood levels between the ages of one to three years. During the remainder of childhood, nocturnal peak levels drop progressively by 80%. In adults, these levels show an additional drop of some 10%, mainly during senescence. The large drop in serum MLT during childhood is probably the result of the increase in size of the human body, despite a constant MLT production after infancy. The additional decline of MLT with higher age may be due to a yet unidentified physiological mechanism accompanying senescence. The biological significance of these MLT alterations remains unknown. Since the discovery of MLT, an immediate sedative action of this hormone has been known. A number of recent studies have demonstrated that MLT indeed exerts a sleep-promoting action by accelerating sleep initiation, improving sleep maintenance, and marginally altering sleep architecture. The potential of MLT in the treatment of insomnia is being explored, and the results are promising. Although in most of these studies pharmacological dosages of MLT have been used, preliminary data suggest that similar effects can also be achieved by physiological hormone concentrations. The latter observation raises the question of whether MLT might be involved in the physiological control of sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Waldhauser
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Vienna, Austria.
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Okatani Y, Okamoto K, Hayashi K, Wakatsuki A, Tamura S, Sagara Y. Maternal-fetal transfer of melatonin in pregnant women near term. J Pineal Res 1998; 25:129-34. [PMID: 9745980 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.1998.tb00550.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to evaluate the maternal-fetal transfer of melatonin in pregnant women. Serum melatonin concentration was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection in a maternal vein and in the umbilical artery and umbilical vein at the time of birth. Blood samples were obtained from 12 women who had spontaneously delivered vaginally at night. A single oral dose of melatonin was administered to each of 33 patients who underwent a cesarean section, and, blood samples were taken at 1, 2, 3, or 4 hr after the administration of melatonin at delivery. Cesarean section was performed between 1300 and 1500 hr. The mean melatonin concentrations of melatonin in maternal peripheral venous blood and umbilical arterial and umbilical venous blood did not differ significantly, and positive correlations in the serum levels of melatonin were observed between the three sources of blood. The oral administration of 3 mg of melatonin to pregnant women led to marked increases in the serum levels of melatonin, with maximum levels observed 2 hr (21.84 +/- 2.09 ng/ml) after drug administration. Changes in serum levels of melatonin in the umbilical vein and artery resembled those found in the maternal vein. Serum melatonin concentrations did not differ significantly between the maternal vein and the umbilical veins. Serum levels of melatonin in the umbilical vein after the administration of melatonin were significantly and closely correlated with those in the maternal vein (r = 0.924, P < 0.001). These results suggest that, in humans, melatonin is transferred from the maternal to the fetal circulation both easily and rapidly. A potential for the therapeutic use of melatonin as an antioxidant exists in the patients with preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Okatani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kochi Medical School, Japan
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Abstract
Entrainment to the 24-hour light-dark cycle is of adaptive significance to mammals. Human infants are no exception, but some postnatal care habits prevalent in developed countries can interfere with the physiological mechanisms underlying circadian synchronization. We describe the physiological mechanisms of entrainment to the light-dark cycle in fetuses and newborns, and some common parental care behaviors which subject the developing circadian system of the newborn to conflicting temporal cues. Improvements in parental care are proposed which may improve the circadian synchronization of newborns, and their parents or caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Recio
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria, Spain
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Abstract
Increasing evidence indicates that the circadian timing system is a fundamental hemostatic system that potently influences human behavior and physiology throughout development. Circadian clock function begins during fetal life, and photic regulation of circadian phase is present at birth in primates. After birth, there is progressive maturation of the circadian system, with day-night rhythms in activity and hormone secretion developing between 1 and 3 months of age. Several disorders of the circadian system are now recognized and include clock disorders and problems related to inadequate entrainment of circadian phase. Treatments for several circadian system disorders are now available and include light therapy and melatonin. With the continued elucidation of circadian system development and influences on human physiology and illness, it is anticipated that consideration of circadian biology will become an increasingly important component of clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Rivkees
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Molina-Carballo A, Muñoz-Hoyos A, Martin-García JA, Uberos-Fernández J, Rodriguez-Cabezas T, Acuña-Castroviejo D. 5-Methoxytryptophol and melatonin in children: differences due to age and sex. J Pineal Res 1996; 21:73-9. [PMID: 8912232 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.1996.tb00273.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
It seems clear that the pineal hormone, melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine), is involved in the reproductive behavior of several animal species including humans. Moreover, several data also support a role for 5-methoxytryptophol (ML), another pineal hormone, in the control of sexual processes. To test the role of ML in human reproductive axis, 128 healthy children, 68 boys and 60 girls, were studied. Each of these groups was divided in three age subgroups of 6, 11, and 14 years. A single blood sample (0900 hours) was obtained from each subject to determine melatonin, ML, FSH, LH, estradiol (girls), and testoterone (boys) by RIA. Statistical analysis of the data included ANOVA-II (factor I: age, factor II: sex) and an analysis of covariance with age as covariate. A similar plasma melatonin concentration, with a significant decrease between 6 and 11 years, was found in boys and girls. Melatonin concentrations correlate well with initiation of the pubertal development in these children, although no sex differences were found. Concentrations of ML are approximately 50% of those of melatonin. In contrast to melatonin, ML levels show significant age and sex differences. Plasma ML concentration significantly increased in boys (P < 0.001) and decreased in girls (P < 0.001) after 8 years of age. These results support the hypothesis that, besides melatonin, other pineal compounds such as ML may be involved in the maturation process in humans. The pineal indole ML may also be used as a marker of the different chronobiology in the pubertal development in boys and girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Molina-Carballo
- Departamento de Pediatria, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Granada, Spain
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Mantagos S, Moustogiannis A, Makri M, Vagenakis A. The effect of light on plasma melatonin levels in premature infants. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 1996; 9:387-92. [PMID: 8887148 DOI: 10.1515/jpem.1996.9.3.387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that full term neonates actively secrete melatonin and that light deprivation during the first 72 h of life significantly increases plasma melatonin levels. In order to evaluate pineal gland activity and responsiveness to light in premature infants, we measured plasma melatonin levels in 23 healthy infants, 33-36 weeks of gestation, during their first week of life. Nine infants (Group A) remained under constant illumination conditions for 48 hour prior to melatonin measurements. Fourteen infants (Group B) were exposed for the same time period to an artificial alternation of day and night cycles by covering the eyes of the infants with eye pads during the night (20.00-08.00 h). Mean +/- SEM plasma melatonin at 20.00 h, 04.00 h, 12.00 h and 20.00 h was 14.8 +/- 1.6, 16.2 +/- 2.8, 18.7 +/- 3.1, 20.9 +/- 3.1 pg/ml in Group A and 20.5 +/- 3.2, 22.3 +/- 2.9, 20.2 +/- 2.2, 18.5 +/- 2.2 pg/ml in Group B respectively. The differences observed between the two groups were not statistically significant. Our results indicate that at this gestational age the pineal gland is actively secreting melatonin but does not respond to the light alternations attempted. Further studies are needed in order to evaluate the developmental maturation of the pineal gland in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mantagos
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Patras School of Medicine, Greece
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Yuan H, Chan CW, Sturner WQ, Pang SF, Brown GM. Comparison of [125I]iodomelatonin binding sites in infant cerebellum of sudden infant death syndrome and non-sudden infant death syndrome. Neurosci Lett 1995; 197:154-8. [PMID: 8552283 DOI: 10.1016/0304-3940(95)11904-b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
[125I]Iodomelatonin bindings sites in human infant cerebellum were studied by radioligand receptor binding assay and in vitro quantitative autoradiography. The binding sites characterized in membrane preparations revealed saturable, reversible and highly specific binding sites with a Kd value of 21.2 +/- 8.33 pM and a Bmax value of 2.02 +/- 0.52 fmol/mg protein. 10 microM of GTP gamma S significantly reduced the binding capacity, suggesting the possible G-protein coupling of the binding sites. Autoradiographic study showed that the labelling was mainly located in the cerebellar cortex. On comparison of the binding parameters from cerebellum of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and non-SIDS infants, no significant change in binding capacity and binding affinity was detected. These findings suggest that the binding sites in cerebellum may not be related to the etiology of SIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Yuan
- Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Department of Psychiatry, Ontario, Canada
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Swaab DF, Zhou JN, Ehlhart T, Hofman MA. Development of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide neurons in the human suprachiasmatic nucleus in relation to birth and sex. BRAIN RESEARCH. DEVELOPMENTAL BRAIN RESEARCH 1994; 79:249-59. [PMID: 7955323 DOI: 10.1016/0165-3806(94)90129-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The development of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) neurons was determined in the human suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of 43 subjects ranging from 27 weeks of gestation to 30 years of age using immunocytochemistry and morphometry. VIP neurons were first observed at 31 weeks of gestation in the ventrolateral part of the SCN. From 3 months postnatally onwards, VIP positive neurons were observed in some subjects in the centromedial part of the SCN. The centromedial type of VIP staining became a constant finding only at 19 years of age, at term the SCN was still very immature. Only in a few subjects some VIP neurons stained in the ventrolateral SCN and their number and nuclear diameter was small. Postnatally the number of VIP neurons increased gradually until around 3 years of age adult values were reached. After the age of 10 a clear sex difference in the number of VIP neurons was found: males having on average twice as many VIP neurons in the SCN as females. The adult VIP cell numbers in the SCN amounted only 35% of those found earlier for vasopressin. The present data do not support a particular role for VIP neurons in those rhythms that are already present in early development, e.g., of the temperature rhythm in prematures of around 30 weeks gestational age. Our observations in this and earlier papers as well as animal studies do suggest though a possible role for VIP neurons in the SCN in sexual dimorphic functions such as reproduction and sexual behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- D F Swaab
- Graduate School Neurosciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Waldhauser F, Ehrhart B, Förster E. Clinical aspects of the melatonin action: impact of development, aging, and puberty, involvement of melatonin in psychiatric disease and importance of neuroimmunoendocrine interactions. EXPERIENTIA 1993; 49:671-81. [PMID: 8359273 DOI: 10.1007/bf01923949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
During the last decade we have learned much on physiological changes in the secretion of the pineal hormone melatonin (MLT) in man. Reportedly, there is little or no MLT secreted before age 3 months. Then MLT production commences, becomes circadian, and reaches highest nocturnal levels at the age of 1-3 years. During all of childhood nocturnal peak levels drop progressively by 80% until adult levels are reached. This alteration appears to be the consequence of increasing body size in face of constant MLT production during childhood. The biological significance of this MLT alteration is presently unknown. Because of conceptual considerations, major depressive syndrome (MDS) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD) have been in the focus of pineal research for several years. Although in these disorders alterations in MLT levels could not be substantiated, light therapy, a consequence of this research, was discovered as an effective treatment for SAD and perhaps for MDS. In addition, there is some recent evidence for low MLT levels in schizophrenia. Finally, the potential effect of MLT in neuroimmunoendocrine interactions is presently explored. Reportedly, in vitro studies and animal experiments give evidence for a modulatory role of MLT in the immune response. However, the exact way of this possible action of MLT remains to be clarified. Clinical studies are too scant for a meaningful estimation of MLT's involvement in human neuroimmunoendocrine interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Waldhauser
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Vienna, Austria
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Weissbluth L, Weissbluth M. The photo-biochemical basis of infant colic: pineal intracellular calcium concentrations controlled by light, melatonin, and serotonin. Med Hypotheses 1993; 40:158-64. [PMID: 8502194 DOI: 10.1016/0306-9877(93)90204-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Infant crying during the first 3 months of life exhibits a circadian rhythm with peak crying in the evening hours. Intracellular calcium ion within the pineal gland may be influenced by alternating light and dark, melatonin concentrations, and serotonin concentrations which both exhibit circadian rhythmicity. Differences in light by latitude and differences in the ontogenic development of melatonin and serotonin rhythmicity could combine to effect the pineal intracellular concentrations of calcium and result in high levels of infant crying called colic.
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50
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Weissbluth L, Weissbluth M. Infant colic: the effect of serotonin and melatonin circadian rhythms on the intestinal smooth muscle. Med Hypotheses 1992; 39:164-7. [PMID: 1461181 DOI: 10.1016/0306-9877(92)90180-k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
It is hypothesized that in the evening, peak serotonin concentration causes intestinal cramps associated with colic because serotonin increases intestinal smooth muscle contractions. Melatonin has the opposite effect of relaxing intestinal smooth muscles. Both serotonin and melatonin exhibit a circadian rhythm with peak concentrations in the evening. However, serotonin intestinal contractions are unopposed by melatonin during the first 3 months because only serotonin circadian rhythms are present at birth. Melatonin circadian rhythms appear at 3 months of age. The cramps of colic disappear at 3 months of age.
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