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Melatonin: an antioxidant in edible plants
1Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, The University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900, USA. Reiter@uthscsa.edu
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|June 21, 2002
Summary
Melatonin, a potent antioxidant, is found in edible plants. Consuming plant-based melatonin may contribute to the body's overall antioxidant defense, potentially protecting against oxidative stress.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Plant Science
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Melatonin is a well-known antioxidant found widely in animals.
- Its presence and role in the plant kingdom were previously less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of melatonin in edible plants.
- To explore the potential contribution of dietary melatonin to antioxidant status.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of melatonin content in various edible plants.
- Correlation studies between blood melatonin levels and antioxidant status.
Main Results:
- Melatonin was detected in edible plants, indicating dietary sources.
- Plant-derived melatonin is an exogenous source of this antioxidant.
- Blood melatonin concentrations positively correlated with total antioxidant status.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin is present in the plant kingdom and is consumed through diet.
- Dietary melatonin may play a significant role in protecting against oxidative damage.
- Further research into dietary melatonin's health implications is warranted.