Researchers have created new 3D maps of two melatonin receptors. The models can be used to help develop new treatments that not only improve sleep, but may also treat a variety of other conditions from diabetes to cancer.
The chances of having asthma are three times higher in teenagers who go to bed late at night compared to those who sleep earlier. The risk of allergic rhinitis is two times higher for late sleepers. Researchers say they can not be certain that staying up late is a cause for asthma, however, they note melatonin is often out of sync in late sleepers, and that could be an influential factor in the allergic response.
Chronobiologists warn changing to daylight savings can have serious effects on both brain and general health. The change in time during spring was linked to a 24% increase in severe cardiovascular events in women. Researchers also noted the sudden change in time alters circadian rhythms, reduces the production of natural melatonin, impacts cognitive function, and may also foster tumor growth.
Researchers report a variation of the MTNR1A gene is linked to an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease in older people. The same gene has previously been implicated in reduced tolerance to shift work in the aging population.
Researchers report our gut bacteria is sensitive to melatonin and expresses its own circadian rhythm.
Normal sleep in mice is reliant upon bacteria that help produce neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, in the gut.
According to a new study, melatonin works by suppressing neurons that keep you awake and alert. The findings could pave the way for new treatments for insomnia.
Breast milk may help train the circadian clock in young babies. The hormonal composition of breast milk changes throughout the day, with cortisol levels being higher in the morning and melatonin levels being higher at night.
According to a new study, synthetic chemicals found in some insecticides can bind to melatonin receptors, creating a higher risk for people to develop diabetes and other metabolic disorders.
Overexposure to artificial light, especially from devices which emit blue light, can suppress melatonin and disrupt the circadian cycle, a new study reports.
According to researchers, those who eat in close proximity to their natural melatonin onset are more likely to have a higher percentage of body fat and BMI than those who eat earlier.
EPFL scientists have proven that light intensity influences our cognitive performance and how alert we feel, and that these positive...
