Clinical Research Directory

Melatonin in Pregnancy Compared to Non-pregnant

Sponsor: University of Aberdeen

Summary

Melatonin is well known for its role in the sleep-wake cycle but it is less well known as an effective antioxidant. It has been reported to be synthesised in the placenta and may have both receptor mediated and non-receptor mediated protective functions during pregnancy. Severe pre-eclampsia has been reported to be associated with low levels of melatonin in the placenta although it is not known if the placental melatonin contributes to circulating levels. There is little reported on the circulating levels of melatonin or oxidative stress at different stages of normal pregnancy. More information on the role of melatonin and metabolism of melatonin in pregnancy as well as any significant association with adverse pregnancy outcomes would inform planning of larger research studies to investigate the potential role for melatonin as a biomarker for obstetric disease and potentially as a therapeutic agent in future. This observational pilot study aims to measure serum melatonin levels and 6-hydroxymelatonin sulphate (the major metabolite of melatonin) during each trimester of pregnancy.

Official title: Circulating Melatonin and 6-hydroxymelatonin Levels During Pregnancy

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