Progress on physiological activities of melatonin and its mechanisms
The pineal gland is a neuroendocrine gland.Melatonin is a kind of neuroendocrine hormone secreted by the pineal gland, which has a wide range of physiological effects.Many researches found that melatonin have certain biological effects in hypnosis, reconstruction and stabilization of biological rhythm, immune regulation, reproductive system, nervous system, digestive system, and antioxidant, anti-aging, anti -tumor etc..This paper reviewed the latest progress of the domestic and foreign research related to melatonin, and discussed its biological effects and mechanisms.