Short note: melatonin-dependent infertility

Med Hypotheses. 1999 May;52(5):487-8. doi: 10.1054/mehy.1998.0629.

Abstract

Melatonin may be a key factor in the regulation of seasonal variation in gonadal activity. The circadian disturbances related to reproduction are probably subsequent to the seasonal change. Moreover, melatonin might also be considered essential for both spermatogenesis and folliculogenesis. Exposure to bright light, suppressing the concentration of melatonin in circulation, is hypothesized to be useful in treatment of both male and female infertility in couples with abnormal melatonin metabolism.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Female / physiopathology*
  • Infertility, Female / therapy
  • Infertility, Male / physiopathology*
  • Infertility, Male / therapy
  • Light
  • Male
  • Melatonin / physiology*
  • Models, Biological
  • Ovarian Follicle / physiology
  • Photoperiod
  • Seasons
  • Spermatogenesis / physiology

Substances

  • Melatonin