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. 2020 Mar 15;17(6):1916.
doi: 10.3390/ijerph17061916.

Melatonin-Measurement Methods and the Factors Modifying the Results. A Systematic Review of the Literature

Beata Rzepka-Migut  1 , Justyna Paprocka  2
Affiliations

Melatonin-Measurement Methods and the Factors Modifying the Results. A Systematic Review of the Literature

Beata Rzepka-Migut et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health. .

Abstract

Melatonin plays an important role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle and adaptation to environmental changes. Concentration measurements in bioliquids such as serum/plasma, saliva and urine are widely used to assess peripheral rhythm. The aim of the study was to compare methods and conditions of determinations carried out with the identification of factors potentially affecting the measurements obtained. We have identified a group of modifiable and unmodifiable factors that facilitate data interpretation. Knowledge of modifiers allows you to carefully plan the test protocol and then compare the results. There is no one universal sampling standard, because the choice of method and biofluid depends on the purpose of the study and the research group.

Keywords: DLMO; Dim light melatonin onset; body fluids; drugs; measurement methods; melatonin.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Chemical structure of N-acetyl-methoxytryptamine.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Chemical structure of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Chemical structure of hydroxymelatonin.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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