Melatonin

Melatonin

Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is a naturally produced, essential indoleamine synthesized mainly in the pineal gland. It is fundamental for regulating circadian rhythms, seasonal physiological cycles, and the body’s antioxidant defense systems. This compound is a vital research tool for investigating the precise mechanisms of sleep and wake regulation, cellular protection strategies, and systemic hormonal balance. The product is strictly manufactured and intended for laboratory and analytical research purposes only.

Melatonin Overview

Melatonin is biosynthesized from the essential amino acid tryptophan via an enzymatic sequence, utilizing serotonin as a key intermediate compound. Its secretion is dynamically controlled by the light-dark cycle, resulting in maximum circulating levels during the nighttime. In scientific models, melatonin acts as a pleiotropic signaling molecule deeply involved in circadian rhythm modulation, mitochondrial functional stability, maintenance of redox homeostasis, and immune system signaling.

Melatonin’s extensive scientific profile highlights its function as a powerful, intrinsic antioxidant. It effectively neutralizes harmful reactive oxygen and nitrogen species and simultaneously enhances the catalytic output of crucial antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. Ongoing research also focuses on melatonin’s regulatory role in reproductive hormone control, its substantial contribution to neuroprotection, and its mechanisms for mitigating cellular aging.

Melatonin Structure

Parameter

Value

Molecular Formula

C13H16N2O2

Molecular Weight

232.28 Da

Observed Mass (Batch # 2025027)

232.3 Da

Purity (Verified)

99.17 %

Form

Crystalline powder

Analysis Method

Reverse-phase HPLC (UV 280 nm) and LCMS (ESI+ mode), calibrated with reference standard.

Appearance

White to faintly off-white crystalline powder

Melatonin Research

Circadian Rhythm and Sleep Regulation

Melatonin targets the MT1 and MT2 receptors located in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the central biological clock. Research validates its utility in modulating and phase-shifting circadian rhythms, making it an essential chemical tool for studies in chronobiology and sleep physiology.

Antioxidant and Mitochondrial Effects

Melatonin is confirmed to possess both direct free-radical scavenging and indirect enzymatic induction antioxidant properties. This dual mechanism positions it as a key research compound for exploring oxidative stress pathologies and the preservation of mitochondrial health.

Neuroendocrine and Immune Modulation

Melatonin’s documented role in coordinating neuroendocrine activity and influencing immune function is a major research area. Findings indicate it is critical for balancing cytokine production, controlling inflammation, and regulating the hypothalamic–pituitary axis.

Cellular Protection and Aging

Studies focused on melatonin’s cytoprotective and anti-aging potential emphasize its role in maintaining mitochondrial integrity, stabilizing membrane potential, and reducing DNA damage linked to aging. Its comprehensive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory roles are central to research on cellular senescence.

Article Author

This literature compilation and summary were prepared and organized by Dr. Russel J. Reiter, Ph.D., a renowned Professor of Cellular Biology at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

Dr. Reiter is globally recognized as the leading authority in melatonin biology. His transformative research has elucidated melatonin’s diverse functions in circadian regulation, mitochondrial performance, antioxidant defense, and cellular aging. He has profoundly advanced the scientific understanding of melatonin as both a neuroendocrine signal and a potent antioxidant compound.

Scientific Journal Author

The highly influential research conducted collaboratively by Dr. Russel J. Reiter, Dr. Dun-Xian Tan, and their team has been fundamental to the detailed characterization of melatonin's multifaceted biological properties.

Their collective publications have defined the breadth of melatonin’s mechanisms of action, from its receptor signaling to its deep involvement in redox regulation and mitochondrial defense. The Reiter–Tan group's work has significantly expanded the fields of chronobiology, cellular metabolism, and physiological resilience, establishing melatonin as a foundational research molecule.

Reference Citations

• Reiter RJ, Tan DX, Galano A. "Melatonin: exceeding expectations." Physiology (Bethesda). 2014;29(5):325-333. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25180259/
• Hardeland R, Cardinali DP, Srinivasan V, et al. "Melatonin-a pleiotropic, orchestrating regulator molecule." Prog Neurobiol. 2011;93(3):350-384. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21193011/
• Acuña-Castroviejo D, Escames G, Venegas C, et al. "Melatonin in the regulation of cellular energy metabolism: mitochondrial protection." Int J Mol Sci. 2014;15(4):6908-6938. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24752558/
• Arendt J, Skene DJ. "Melatonin as a chronobiotic." Sleep Med Rev. 2005;9(1):25-39. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15649736/
• Pandi-Perumal SR, Srinivasan V, Maestroni GJM, et al. "Melatonin: Nature's most versatile biological signal." FEBS J. 2006;273(13):2813-2838. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16817850/
• Cardinali DP, Pevet P. "Basic aspects of melatonin action." Sleep Med Rev. 1998;2(3):175-190. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15310406/
• Claustrat B, Leston J. "Melatonin: physiological effects in humans." Neurochirurgie. 2015;61(2-3):77-84. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ 25818301/
• Tan DX, Manchester LC, Terron MP, et al. "Melatonin as a natural antioxidant: from molecular mechanisms to clinical significance." Brain Res Bull. 2007;73(1-3):203-213. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17499606/
• Reiter RJ, Rosales-Corral S, Tan DX, et al. "Melatonin as a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant: one molecule, multiple actions." Cell Mol Life Sci. 2017;74(21):3863-3881. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28567501/
• National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Melatonin compound summary," https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Melatonin

ALL ARTICLES AND PRODUCT INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

The products offered on this website are furnished for in-vitro studies only. In-vitro studies (Latin: in glass) are performed outside of the body. These products are not medicines or drugs and have not been approved by the FDA to prevent, treat or cure any medical condition, ailment or disease. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law.

STORAGE

Storage Instructions

The product is prepared via a specialized lyophilization (freeze-drying) process, which ensures stability for approximately 3-4 months during shipping. After reconstitution with bacteriostatic water, the peptide solution must be stored under refrigeration to maintain its effectiveness, remaining stable for a maximum of 30 days.

Lyophilization, or cryodesiccation, is a dehydration technique where peptides are frozen and exposed to low pressure, leading to the sublimation of water. This leaves behind the stable, white crystalline powder. This dry, lyophilized peptide is safe for room temperature storage for several weeks until reconstitution.

For optimal long-term preservation (months to years), storage in a freezer at -80 degrees C (-112 degrees F) is the standard requirement. This ensures maximal preservation of the peptide's structural integrity and long-term stability.

Upon receipt, peptides must be kept cool and protected from light. For short-term use, refrigeration below 4 degrees C (39 degrees F) is suitable. Lyophilized peptides generally remain stable at room temperature for several weeks, which is acceptable for minimal storage periods.

Best Practices For Storing Peptides

Correct storage protocols are vital for achieving reliable laboratory results. Following proper procedures prevents contamination, oxidation, and degradation, ensuring the peptide remains stable and effective.

• Short-Term Storage: Peptides must be kept cool and shielded from light. Refrigeration below 4 degrees C (39 degrees F) is standard.
• Long-Term Storage: Use a freezer set at -80 degrees C (-112 degrees F) for storage over several months or years.
• Minimize Freeze-Thaw: Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, as these significantly accelerate degradation. Avoid using frost-free freezers.
• Aliquoting: Divide the total peptide into smaller, single-use aliquots to limit unnecessary handling and exposure.

Preventing Oxidation and Moisture Contamination

Peptides must be protected from air and moisture. To prevent condensation (moisture contamination) when removing cold vials, always allow the sealed container to reach room temperature before opening.

Minimize air exposure by keeping the container sealed and promptly resealing it after use. Storing under an inert gas atmosphere (e.g., nitrogen or argon) can further prevent oxidation, particularly for peptides containing Cysteine (C), Methionine (M), or Tryptophan (W) residues.

Storing Peptides In Solution

Peptide solutions have a significantly shorter shelf life and degrade more easily than lyophilized forms. Peptides containing Cys, Met, Trp, Aspartic acid (Asp), Glutamine (Gln), or N-terminal Glutamic acid (Glu) residues degrade rapidly in solution.

If liquid storage is required, use sterile buffers with a pH between 5 and 6. Aliquot the solution to minimize freeze-thaw cycles. Most solutions are stable for up to 30 days under refrigeration at 4 degrees C (39 degrees F), but less stable sequences should be kept frozen.

Peptide Storage Containers

Containers must be clean, durable, chemically resistant, and sized to minimize air space. High-quality glass vials are preferred for optimal, long-term inert storage, though plastic (polystyrene or polypropylene) is suitable for shipping.

Peptide Storage Guidelines: General Tips

Follow these final best practices for maximum stability:

• Store in a cold, dry, and dark environment.
• Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
• Minimize air exposure.
• Protect from light.
• Store lyophilized whenever possible.
• Utilize aliquots for controlled handling.