Abstract
Background Previous studies proved that the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is correlated
with sleep regulation, yet how BDNF functions and reacts in the melatonin treatment
of circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorder (CRSWD) among obese children remain enigmatic.
Focusing on CRSWD in obese children, this study monitored their sleep efficiency and
serum BDNF level changes during the treatment of melatonin.
Methods In total, 35 obese children diagnosed with CRSWD were included in this study and
administrated melatonin (3 mg/night) for 3 months. Blood samples were collected 24 hours
before and after the treatment (08:00, 12:00, 16:00, 20:00, 24:00, and 04:00). Subsequently,
the plasma melatonin level and serum BDNF level were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent
assay. Sleep parameters, including sleep quality, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index as
well as melatonin and BDNF levels before and after treatment, were recorded to profile
the effectiveness and safety of melatonin treatment.
Results Melatonin treatment increased plasma melatonin concentration and restored circadian
rhythm. Besides, the serum BDNF level showed a significant increase, representing
a strong positive correlation with melatonin concentration (p = 0.026). Patients experienced much-improved sleep efficiency (P < 0.001), with longer actual sleep time (P < 0.001), shorter sleep onset latency, and fewer awakenings after treatment (P < 0.001). Besides, melatonin was well tolerated by patients without producing severe
side effects.
Conclusion Melatonin treatment effectively improved CRSWD among obese children with their serum
BDNF levels increased, indicating that BDNF is a key regulator in CRSWD in obese children.
This study may offer theoretical support for melatonin treatment of CRSWD in obese
children.
Keywords
obese children - circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorder - melatonin - brain-derived
neurotrophic factor
