Melatonin’s Magic: Study Shows Melatonin Receptor Key to REM Sleep

Researchers say they have discovered a receptor that helps promote healthy REM sleep.

The team described it as “a significant breakthrough in the understanding of sleep mechanisms.” The researchers identified the melatonin receptor MT1 as a critical regulator of REM sleep, the sleep stage that is crucial for memory consolidation and emotional regulation. 

In the brain, the melatonin MT1 receptor affects a type of neuron that synthesizes the neurotransmitter and hormone noradrenaline, found in an area known as the Locus Coeruleus.

"This discovery not only advances our understanding of sleep mechanisms but also holds significant clinical potential," said Gabriella Gobbi, principal investigator of the study, which was published in the Journal of Neuroscience.

In their study, they used a potential drug known as UCM871 to selectively target the melatonin MT1 receptor. 

But, doesn’t it make sense, perhaps, that a melatonin receptor should receive melatonin? While logical, we cannot yet say that as there is no definitive research showing that supplemental melatonin can dock in this receptor.

While the authors used an experimental drug to target the MT1 receptor to stimulate REM sleep, we know that melatonin works to lull the individual to sleep by helping to regulate a normal sleep/wake cycle (Circadian rhythm).

However, consumers who are skittish about OTCs or pharmaceuticals for sleep gain may be much more likely to supplement with melatonin. However, not all melatonin supplements are equal in their efficacy.

One that stands out is Melotime™, which has been proven to supply the body with an 8-hour sustained sleep through its unique release profile technology that delivers the first 50% of the dose in the first hour and then the remainder released at each 1 hour afterward for an 8-hour slumber.

As millions of adults of all ages throughout the world chase a good night’s sleep, consider Melotime. Bonus: it can also be successfully incorporated into gummies!