Summary
This systematic review compares melatonin measurement methods across biofluids (serum/plasma, saliva, urine) and identifies modifiable and unmodifiable factors that affect results, which is critical for designing valid circadian lighting studies. Researchers and clinicians must carefully standardize sampling protocols—including controlling light exposure conditions—to ensure reliable melatonin data across studies.
Key Findings
- No universal sampling standard exists; choice of biofluid and measurement method must be tailored to study purpose and population.
- Modifiable factors (e.g., light exposure, posture, food intake, medication) and unmodifiable factors (e.g., age, sex) were identified as sources of variability in melatonin measurements.
- Saliva, serum/plasma, and urine each have distinct advantages and limitations for assessing peripheral melatonin rhythms.
Categories
Sleep & Circadian Health: Reviews melatonin measurement methodologies directly relevant to assessing circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycle research.
The Science of Light: Identifies modifiable factors (including light exposure) that affect melatonin measurements, critical for interpreting photobiological studies.
Author(s)
B Rzepka-Migut, J Paprocka
Publication Year
2020
Number of Citations
56
Related Publications
Sleep & Circadian Health
- Phototransduction by retinal ganglion cells that set the circadian clock
- The mammalian circadian timing system: organization and coordination of central and peripheral clocks
- The two‐process model of sleep regulation: a reappraisal
- Melanopsin is required for non-image-forming photic responses in blind mice
- Strange vision: ganglion cells as circadian photoreceptors
The Science of Light
- Phototransduction by retinal ganglion cells that set the circadian clock
- Color appearance models
- The mammalian circadian timing system: organization and coordination of central and peripheral clocks
- Diminished pupillary light reflex at high irradiances in melanopsin-knockout mice
- Melanopsin is required for non-image-forming photic responses in blind mice