From the Research
The gene primarily connected to rapid melatonin breakdown is CYP1A2, which encodes for the cytochrome P450 1A2 enzyme. This enzyme is responsible for metabolizing approximately 95% of melatonin in the liver, as supported by studies such as 1 and 2. People with certain variants of the CYP1A2 gene may be "fast metabolizers," meaning their bodies break down melatonin more quickly than average, potentially reducing its effectiveness for sleep and other functions. This genetic variation can explain why some individuals experience limited benefits from standard melatonin supplements or require higher doses to achieve the same effect. The CYP1A2 enzyme activity can also be influenced by other factors such as caffeine consumption, smoking, and certain medications, which may further affect melatonin metabolism, as noted in 3. Understanding your CYP1A2 genotype could help explain individual differences in response to melatonin supplementation and guide more personalized dosing strategies.
Some key points to consider:
- CYP1A2 is the primary enzyme responsible for melatonin metabolism in the liver, as confirmed by studies such as 1 and 2.
- Variants of the CYP1A2 gene can affect melatonin metabolism, leading to individual differences in response to melatonin supplements, as suggested by 4 and 5.
- Other factors, such as caffeine consumption and certain medications, can also influence CYP1A2 enzyme activity and melatonin metabolism, as noted in 3.
- Personalized dosing strategies based on CYP1A2 genotype may be necessary to optimize the effectiveness of melatonin supplements, as implied by the findings of 4 and 5.
Overall, the evidence suggests that CYP1A2 plays a crucial role in melatonin metabolism, and understanding its function and variability can help guide personalized approaches to melatonin supplementation, as supported by the most recent and highest quality studies, including 1 and 2.