title: Melatonin and development: physiology and pharmacology.
abstract: This review discusses the development of melatonin rhythmicity in humans and the factors that may alter the appearance of melatonin rhythms. The literature on the possible consequences of disordered melatonin production in relation to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, fetal origins of adult disease, and scoliosis is critically reviewed. Finally, the emerging use of melatonin to correct sleep disorders in infants and children is reviewed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Adelaide, South Australia.
authors.forename: D J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Kennaway
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000375:Aging; D002648:Child; D002940:Circadian Rhythm; D005260:Female; D005333:Fetus / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008550:Melatonin / Q000172:deficiency / Q000502:physiology* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011247:Pregnancy; D012600:Scoliosis / Q000209:etiology; D012893:Sleep Wake Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy; D013398:Sudden Infant Death / Q000209:etiology
chemical_list: D008550:Melatonin