Melatonin
IUPAC: N-[2-(5-methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)ethyl]acetamide
| Formula / Notation | C13H16N2O2 |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 73-31-4 |
| Molecular Weight | 232.28 |
| Melting Point | 117 °C |
| Solubility | In water, 2 g/L at 20 °C; 5 g/L at 50 °C |
| Appearance | Solid |
| Also Known As | N-[2-(5-methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)ethyl]acetamide; 73-31-4; Melatonine; N-Acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine; N-[2-(5-Methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)ethyl]acetamide; Circadin; 5-Methoxy-N-acetyltryptamine; Melatol; N-(2-(5-Methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)ethyl)acetamide; Melovine |
| Category | Organic Compounds |
What is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a member of the class of acetamides that is acetamide in which one of the hydrogens attached to the nitrogen atom is replaced by a 2-(5-methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)ethyl group. It is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland in humans. It has a role as a geroprotector, a hormone, a central nervous system depressant, an anticonvulsant, a radical scavenger, an immunological adjuvant, a mouse metabolite and a human metabolite. It is a member of acetamides and a member of tryptamines. It is functionally related to a tryptamine.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: N-[2-(5-methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)ethyl]acetamide
Other Names / Synonyms: N-[2-(5-methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)ethyl]acetamide; 73-31-4; Melatonine; N-Acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine; N-[2-(5-Methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)ethyl]acetamide; Circadin; 5-Methoxy-N-acetyltryptamine; Melatol; N-(2-(5-Methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)ethyl)acetamide; Melovine
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 117 °C |
| Molecular Weight | 232.28 |
| Solubility | In water, 2 g/L at 20 °C; 5 g/L at 50 °C |
| Appearance | Solid |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Melatonin is a member of the class of acetamides that is acetamide in which one of the hydrogens attached to the nitrogen atom is replaced by a 2-(5-methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)ethyl group. It is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland in humans. It has a role as a geroprotector, a hormone, a central nervous system depressant, an anticonvulsant, a radical scavenger, an immunological adjuvant, a mouse metabolite and a human metabolite. It is a member of acetamides and a member of tryptamines. It is functionally related to a tryptamine.
Used as an industrial feedstock, solvent, pharmaceutical intermediate, flavoring agent, or chemical building block.
Flammable or irritant. Many organic compounds are flammable liquids or vapours. Keep away from ignition sources. Consult SDS for specific hazard data.
The formula or notation for Melatonin is: C13H16N2O2