Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences, P.V. Narsimha Rao Telangana Veterinary University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, 500030
*E-mail: dr.surabhi@yahoo.com
Online published on 5 November, 2016.
Melatonin(N-acetyl-5methoxytrptamine)isa neurohormone producedby the pinealglandduring darkness which stimulates onset of breeding season in short day breeders (e.g., sheep) and inhibits gonadotropic activity in long day breeders (e.g., hamster). Thus melatonin could serve as an important management tool in seasonal breeders for estrus synchronization which allows control of lambing and for induction of puberty in ewe-lambs. Melatonin also reduces oxidative stress and has alters the ovarian function the through receptors present in ovarian granulosa cells (OGC). This review summarizes recent developments in the field of melatonin.
Melatonin, neurohormone, pineal gland, estrus synchronization, seasonal breeders
