Abstract

The pathogenesis of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) has been attributed to abnormal melatonin metabolism. Perorally administered psoralens increase the daytime levels of melatonin via the competitive inhibition of hepatic melatonin metabolism. Some findings among SAD patients are parallel to those observed after the administration of a psoralen in healthy subjects. It is hypothesized that there may be a circulating psoralen-like substance which affects SAD patients under a low level of illumination. Exposure to bright light during the daylight period would normalize the abnormal effect independently of the season.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.