What is the role of the melatonin protein in regulating sleep patterns and circadian rhythms?

Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep patterns and circadian rhythms. It is produced by the pineal gland in the brain and is released in response to darkness, signaling to the body that it is time to sleep. Melatonin levels typically rise in the evening and peak during the night, promoting sleep. This hormone plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's internal clock and ensuring a healthy sleep-wake cycle.