Extraocular light exposure does not suppress plasma melatonin in humans

Lockley, SW, Skene, DJ, Thapan, K, English, J, Ribeiro, D, Haimov, I, Hampton, S, Middleton, B, von Schantz, M and Arendt, J (1998) Extraocular light exposure does not suppress plasma melatonin in humans J CLIN ENDOCR METAB, 83 (9). 3369 - 3372. ISSN 0021-972X

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Abstract

Light affects the circadian axis in at least two ways. It can cause the acute suppression of pineal melatonin synthesis, and/or a phase-shift of the circadian oscillator. As recent evidence has suggested that extraocular light exposure may cause phase-shifts of the circadian clock, we have investigated whether suppression of melatonin can be induced by the same type of light exposure. In the first study subjects’ eyes were exposed to white light (2250 lux for 30 min) via a fibre optic cable. As expected, suppression of nighttime plasma melatonin levels (61 ± 6%) was observed. In the second study, light of the same quality but higher intensity (14,000 or 67,500 lux for 180 mins) was delivered in the same manner to the popliteal region behind the subjects’ knees, whilst shielding their eyes. No suppression of plasma melatonin levels (4 ± 7%) was detected in any of the subjects. Thus, extraocular photoreception, if it exists in mammals, does not affect the suprachiasmatic nuclei-pineal pathway.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Origianl article can be found at: http://jcem.endojournals.org/content/83/9/3369
Uncontrolled Keywords:	BRIGHT LIGHT, RADIOIMMUNOASSAY, PHOTORECEPTION, ENTRAINMENT, SECRETION, HAMSTER
Divisions:	Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences > Biochemistry and Physiology
Depositing User:	Symplectic Elements
Date Deposited:	09 Mar 2012 10:40
Last Modified:	23 Sep 2013 19:12
URI:	http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/id/eprint/207053

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