Influence of Melatonin on the Sleep‐Independent Component of Prolactin Secretion

摘要: Sleep has a stimulatory effect on prolactin secretion. Recent studies in the human suggest hypothesis that also an endogenous sleep-independent rhythm, which can be influenced by melatonin. To investigate this hypothesis, response to nighttime exposure bright light was studied eight women detail. Light induces decrease nocturnal melatonin It demonstrated for 2 h at night caused secretion, surpassed significantly decline one would expect sleep deprivation only (P < 0.01). This associated with similar Fall and rise of secretion under these conditions were always preceded levels all studied. Based observations, it is concluded circadian component As specific receptors have been identified nucleus suprachiasmaticus, “master” pacemaker, observed phenomenon might mediated through structure. An alternative explanation our findings could based fact influences dopamine metabolism, turn alters not ruled out act via opioid system, then affect The total secretory activity both hormones (area curve) did change experimental conditions, when compared control group. suggests acute influence process rather than synthesis two hormones. agreement observation changes natural throughout year do alter amplitude, but amount secreted. Further are needed answer question storage definitively, as commonly believed immediately released after synthesis. its external modulator entrain action modulate reproductive processes.