Decrease in melatonin concentration and loss of circadian rhythm for secretion

Physiological

Gender

Male

Data Availability

Period at which this change occurs is not accurately known

Tissues

  • plasma Changes
  • pineal gland Changes

References

Referencing provided by LibAge

External Links

Description

Melatonin secretion increases significantly between approximately 2100h and 0900h. In the young, melatonin levels increase from 10-20pg/mL to 80-120pg/mL. In the elderly, this peak is dramatically flattened, reaching 60pg/mL in individuals 51-60 years of age and 30pg/mL in those 60 or over. By age 70, nighttime melatonin levels are similar to daytime levels.