6-Hydroxymelatonin
6-Hydroxymelatonin is a metabolite of the hormone melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and is primarily released by the pineal gland. As a metabolite, 6-Hydroxymelatonin is a byproduct of the body's process of breaking down melatonin.
Structure and Properties[edit | edit source]
6-Hydroxymelatonin is a monohydroxy derivative of melatonin. It has a molecular weight of 250.278 g/mol and a molecular formula of C13H16N2O3. The compound is solid at room temperature and has a melting point of 246-248 degrees Celsius.
Biological Role[edit | edit source]
6-Hydroxymelatonin is primarily excreted in the urine. It is used as a marker for melatonin levels in the body, as it is easier to measure than melatonin itself. The levels of 6-Hydroxymelatonin in the urine can indicate the amount of melatonin that the body has produced and metabolized.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
The levels of 6-Hydroxymelatonin can be used to diagnose certain medical conditions. For example, low levels of 6-Hydroxymelatonin in the urine can indicate a deficiency in melatonin production, which can be associated with sleep disorders such as insomnia.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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