[Biosynthesis of 5- methoxy-N-acetyltryptamine (melatonin) in enterochromaffin cells]

Chromatographic analysis of the alkaline extract of the gastrointestinal mucosa of rabbits rich in enterochromaffin cells displayed the presence of melatonin (5-methoxy-N-acetyltryptamine) and its precursors (5-oxytryptophane, tryptamine, serotonine, mexamine) in it. Detection of precursors indicated that not a passive accumulation, but an active synthesis of melatonin occurred in the enterochromaffin cells. Epiphysis was not the only place of melatonin synthesis. Functional condition of enterochromaffin cells was largely determined by the extent of physiological and pathological reactions of the organism.