Abstract: Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland, and regulates many physiological conditions including sleep. Melatonin specifically binds to melatonin receptors, regulating central and peripheral functions. The melatonin receptor-mediated signaling pathways in pancreatic β cell affect pancreatic insulin secretion and the function of pancreatic β cell. The activation of melatonin receptors increases the arylalkylamine-N-acetyltransferase activity, which promotes secretion of melatonin, further inhibiting insulin secretion and elevating blood sugar.

Key words: Key words: melatonin, melatonin receptor, type 2 diabetes, insulin, signaling pathway