Circadian Light Sensitivity: How Different Wavelengths Regulate Melatonin
How Do Different Light Wavelengths Affect Melatonin Production?
Different wavelengths of light have dramatically different effects on melatonin regulation, with blue light being up to 5 times more effective than green light at suppressing melatonin production. This comprehensive spectral analysis reveals that human circadian photoreception follows a distinct sensitivity curve, peaking in the blue range (460-480nm) and declining sharply toward longer wavelengths. The research demonstrates that the circadian system uses a specialized light-detection pathway that differs significantly from vision, explaining why the color and timing of light exposure are crucial for healthy sleep-wake cycles.