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Melatonin effects on bone: experimental facts and clinical perspectives
Daniel P Cardinali1, Marta G Ladizesky, Verónica Boggio
1Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina. cardinal@mail.retina.ar
Journal of Pineal Research
|February 4, 2003
Summary
Melatonin may protect bone by directly influencing bone cells and reducing bone resorption. This hormone
Area of Science:
- Bone Biology
- Endocrinology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Bone remodeling involves osteoclasts (resorption) and osteoblasts (formation).
- Hormonal regulation includes parathyroid hormone, estradiol, and growth hormone (GH).
- Melatonin levels decrease with age, suggesting a role in age-related bone loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review early and recent data on melatonin's direct effects on bone.
- To explore melatonin's potential as a therapeutic agent for bone diseases.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on melatonin and bone.
- In vitro studies examining melatonin's effects on bone cell proteins and differentiation.
- In vivo studies in ovariectomized rats.
Main Results:
- Melatonin augments bone matrix proteins (e.g., procollagen type I c-peptide) dose-dependently.
- Melatonin increases osteoprotegerin, inhibiting osteoclast differentiation.
- Melatonin's antioxidant properties may reduce osteoclast activity and bone resorption.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin may act as an autacoid in bone, directly influencing osteoblasts and osteoclasts.
- Its bone-protecting effects, seen in animal models, may involve antioxidant mechanisms.
- Melatonin's potential to improve sleep and GH secretion could also combat age-related bone loss.