Plasma Melatonin Exhibits a Diurnal Secretion in the Common Marmoset (Callithrix jacchus): Relationship to the Rest‐Activity Cycle

摘要

The secretion of plasma melatonin exhibits a diurnal variation in the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus jacchus) (n = 12) with mean values of 125.8 fmol/ml during darkness and below assay sensitivity (mean 70.5 fmol/ml) during the light period. Both melatonin secretion and the rest activity cycle appeared to be phase advanced with relation to the light dark cycle which is consistent with an endogenous circadian period (tau) of<24 h in this species.