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Melatonin Its intracellular and genomic actions
R J Reiter1, C S Oh, O Fujimori
1The University of Texas Health Science Center, Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, San Antonio, TX 78284-7762, USA.
Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism: TEM
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Melatonin, a neurohormone, acts as a potent antioxidant both inside and outside cells. Its ability to scavenge free radicals and protect against oxidative stress suggests it
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Neuroendocrinology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Melatonin exerts effects through membrane receptors and direct intracellular actions.
- It is recognized as a potent antioxidant and free radical scavenger.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the multifaceted antioxidant capabilities of melatonin.
- To investigate melatonin's intracellular and potential genomic actions.
Main Methods:
- In vitro studies assessing free radical scavenging.
- In vivo studies evaluating antioxidant effects.
- Identification of nuclear binding sites for melatonin.
Main Results:
- Melatonin effectively scavenges hydroxyl and peroxyl radicals, outperforming some known compounds.
- It protects against singlet oxygen toxicity and enhances glutathione peroxidase activity.
- Nuclear binding sites for melatonin have been identified in various cells.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin possesses significant antioxidant properties, potentially making it a crucial component of biological antioxidant defense systems.
- Melatonin's actions extend to the nucleus, suggesting genomic effects.
- Further research into melatonin's intracellular and genomic roles is warranted.
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