A recent study in Stem cell research & therapy 2025 explores how melatonin can protect our cells from oxidative damage, especially when there are mitochondrial mutations that increase cellular vulnerability. Scientists have been able to show that melatonin not only reduces cellular stress, but also helps to preserve the cell’s energy functions under conditions of intense stress.
This work, carried out on human stem cells carrying a mutation common in mitochondrial diseases, shows that melatonin modulates biochemical pathways such as MAPK, reducing cell death and improving cell vitality. Although the results were obtained in the laboratory and not directly in humans, they open up new perspectives on the physiological role of melatonin beyond sleep.
Why this finding matters in your daily life
Biological rhythms depend on precise and consistent signals. Melatonin is one of those central signals: it synchronises our sleep-wake cycle and helps the body adapt to external changes such as jet lag or short nights. The new study suggests that as well as signalling the onset of rest, melatonin may have a protective effect against the daily wear and tear caused by stress and cellular ageing.
For those seeking to improve their rest or who feel they are losing sleep quality with age or stress, understanding these pathways brings clarity: maintaining adequate levels of melatonin is essential both for getting a good night’s sleep and for taking care of our internal processes.
How melatonin works in the body
Melatonin is a hormone produced mainly at night, when ambient light decreases. It acts as a messenger between the environment and our brain, signalling when it is time to reduce activity and prepare for rest. However, factors such as hormonal changes, long journeys or night shifts can alter its natural production.
From the age of 40 onwards, nocturnal levels fall progressively. In the over-70s they become minimal, which explains why many people find it more difficult to initiate or maintain stable sleep.
Daily habits that favour your natural rhythm
Taking care of the environment before bedtime makes a difference: dim lights after dinner, avoiding bright screens and preferring light dinners help the brain to interpret night-time signals correctly. Including foods rich in tryptophan (such as oatmeal or banana) reinforces the natural pathways towards good endogenous melatonin synthesis.
However, there are times when these habits are not enough: prolonged periods of stress, time-shifted travel or simply ageing may require extra support to restore physiological balance.
4Sleep accompanies your night-time physiological route
At times when the internal clock loses rhythm due to chronic stress, frequent travel or hormonal transitions due to the passage of time, turning to a supplement aligned with our physiology can be useful. 4Sleep, developed by Nutribiolite, follows this natural logic by combining 1 mg of melatonin, an amount recognised by European authorities as effective in supporting sleep onset without added risk or dependence.
Its formula adds 5-HTP extracted from Griffonia simplicifolia, a direct precursor in the endogenous synthesis of both serotonin (key to emotional well-being) and melatonin during the night. It also includes standardised extracts of valerian and chamomile, traditional plants whose relaxing action is supported by independent scientific evaluations (EFSA).
Melatonin 1 mg and 5-HTP with relaxing plants.
Frequently asked questions about melatonin and 4Sleep
What exactly does melatonin do according to research?
Melatonin regulates our biological clock and initiates the processes prior to deep rest. According to recent studies, it also protects against oxidative stress-induced cell damage.
What is the difference between taking melatonin alone and combined formulas?
While melatonin alone initiates the sleep process quickly, holistic formulas such as 4Sleep add precursors (5-HTP) and relaxing plants that help maintain a stable rest all night long without causing dependence or residual sleepiness.
What is the specific benefit of 5-HTP over tryptophan?
5-HTP is converted directly into serotonin in the brain. It is more efficient than tryptophan because it avoids intermediate metabolic steps and facilitates a smooth transition to increased melatonin production during the night.
Are there any side effects from taking low doses such as those present in 4Sleep?
Regulated doses (up to 1 mg) are endorsed by European bodies as safe for healthy adults when taken before bedtime. Higher doses have not shown any added benefit and may even increase mild risks (occasional dizziness).
Is it necessary to consult a professional before using supplements?
Yes, it is always advisable to do so if you have personal concerns or take regular medication. Nutritional supplements are not a substitute for medical treatment or healthy daily routines.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice.
