A review on the effect of the photoperiod and melatonin on interactions between ghrelin and serotonin

Ghrelin and serotonin, which exhibit rhythmic secretion profiles under feeding/fasting conditions, are sensitive to increases and decreases in the day length and form a close web of interrelationships in the regulation of energy homeostasis. Ghrelin and serotonin are biochemically and functionally linked to the suprachiasmatic nucleus, which is a circadian pacemaker, and melatonin, which is an internal transducer of photic environmental changes. Ghrelin and serotonin might be candidates for integrating photic and nonphotic signals, such as light and food availability in the central nervous system. The mechanisms that convert a light signal into a variety of physiological and behavioral rhythms remain unknown. However, we know that the conversion of light signals is necessary to maximize an animal's chances of survival and reproduction.

► Ghrelin and serotonin exhibit rhythmic secretion under feeding/fasting conditions. ► Ghrelin and serotonin are sensitive to increases and decreases in the day length. ► Ghrelin and serotonin are biochemically/functionally linked to SCN and melatonin. ► Relations between two hormones enable animals to adapt to diverse energy demands.