Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2025

In Vitro Bioluminescence Assay to Characterize Circadian Rhythm in Mammary Epithelial Cells
Published on: September 28, 2017
Melatonin in animal husbandry: functions and applications
Ruohan Zhao1, Yicheng Bai1, Fangxiao Yang2
1College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
Melatonin, a key molecule, enhances animal reproduction and health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Its use in animal husbandry improves production, reproduction, and sustainability.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Endocrinology
- Animal Science
Background:
- Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is a crucial endogenous hormone with extensive biological roles.
- It influences reproductive hormone secretion, reproductive organ function, and gamete quality.
- Melatonin also exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, protecting against tissue damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the characteristics and biological functions of melatonin.
- To explore current applications of melatonin in animal production.
- To provide a reference for melatonin use in animal farming and future research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific studies on melatonin.
- Analysis of melatonin's effects on reproductive physiology.
- Examination of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gut-health modulating mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Melatonin regulates reproductive cycles and enhances reproductive organ functionality.
- It improves sperm and egg quality by mitigating oxidative stress.
- Melatonin supports gut barrier integrity and modulates gut microbiota, reducing inflammation.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin demonstrates significant benefits for animal production performance and reproductive outcomes.
- Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions contribute to improved animal health and stress adaptation.
- Melatonin offers a promising endogenous hormone for sustainable animal husbandry practices.
More Related Videos
05:59Author Spotlight: Overcoming Challenges in Drosophila Sleep Measurement Using DAM System
Published on: October 20, 2023
06:16An Experimental Approach to Investigating Effects of Artificial Light at Night on Free-Ranging Animals: Implementation, Results, and Directions for Future Research
Published on: February 2, 2022
Related Concept Videos
Management of Insomnia
Major Hormones and Their Functions
Oxytocin, produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland, plays a role in social bonding, childbirth, and...
Circadian Rhythms and Gene Regulation
Sedatives and Hypnotics Drugs: Miscellaneous Agents
Melatonin congeners like ramelteon (Rozerem) and tasimelteon (Hetlioz) selectively bind to melatonin receptors (MT1 and MT2) and thus mimic the actions of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Tasimelteon is primarily used for non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder, common in blind patients. They are also used to treat conditions like insomnia...
Biological Clocks and Seasonal Responses
Understanding Sleep
The circadian rhythm, a nearly 24-hour cycle, is deeply influenced by environmental light cues. Light exposure directly affects the hypothalamus, which in turn regulates...