Scientists suspect why children tolerate the course of coronavirus infection more easily. One of the probable causes may be the high presence of melatonin, the sleep hormone in their bodies.
Chinese researchers and their collaborating Americans at UT He alth San Antonio found that one reason why children go through COVID more gently than adults may bea high level of sleep hormone, i.e. melatonin in their bodies.
The hormone is good not only for sleep
The latest research shows that this substance not only regulates the daily rhythm of the day, but also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune system-regulating properties.
During COVID-19, inflammation and the so-called cytokine storm, i.e. an overreaction of the immune system, which can be a serious threat to he alth or life.May lead to acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Melatonin, as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-regulating molecule, may protect against these diseases.
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He althy sleep of a newborn is the key to its proper development
Why are children safer?
According to scientists, COVID-19 rarely shows acute symptoms in children, thanks to the high levels of this hormone in their bodies. Melatonin concentration changes with age, it is the lowest in the neonatal period,the highest in the pre-school period (3-5 years ). Melatonin levels decline from adolescence.
Tests have shown that children have 10 times more of it than people over 55, who are considered at risk when it comes to severe coronavirus infection.
Scientists emphasize that while there is significant evidence thatmelatonin may contribute to alleviating viral infections , additional clinical trials are obviously required to introduce it as a COVID cure .
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