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Melatonin as a radioprotective agent: a review
Vijayalaxmi1, Russel J Reiter, Dun-Xian Tan
1Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, 78229, USA. vijay@uthscsa.edu
Summary
Melatonin, a pineal gland hormone, acts as a potent antioxidant by scavenging free radicals. Studies show melatonin effectively protects mammalian cells from ionizing radiation damage and improves cancer radiotherapy outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Radiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is a versatile hormone produced by the pineal gland.
- It functions as a direct free radical scavenger and antioxidant, neutralizing reactive oxygen and nitrogen species.
- Ionizing radiation causes cellular damage through direct and indirect mechanisms, primarily via free radical generation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the radioprotective efficiency of melatonin.
- To explore its role in mitigating radiation-induced cellular damage.
- To evaluate its potential in cancer radiotherapy and protection against radiation exposure.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of in vitro and in vivo investigations on melatonin's antioxidant and radioprotective properties.
- Analysis of clinical reports on melatonin's efficacy and toxicity in cancer treatment.
- Examination of melatonin's free radical scavenging mechanisms, particularly against hydroxyl radicals.
Main Results:
- Melatonin demonstrates significant free radical scavenging ability, including detoxification of hydroxyl radicals.
- In vitro and in vivo studies confirm melatonin's protection of mammalian cells against ionizing radiation.
- Clinical data suggest a favorable efficacy:toxicity ratio when melatonin is used in cancer radiotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin's potent antioxidant and hydroxyl radical scavenging properties support its use as a radioprotector.
- Evidence warrants larger translational research trials for melatonin in cancer radiotherapy and radiation protection.
- Melatonin shows promise for protecting against radiation terrorism and in clinical oncology.