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Human Primary Trophoblast Cell Culture Model to Study the Protective Effects of Melatonin Against Hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced Disruption
Published on: July 30, 2016
Melatonin and pregnancy in the human.
Hiroshi Tamura1, Yasuhiko Nakamura, M Pilar Terron
1Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
Reproductive Toxicology (Elmsford, N.Y.)
|May 20, 2008
Summary
Melatonin, a key hormone, is essential for successful human pregnancy, aiding fetal development and potentially correcting pregnancy complications. Its levels naturally increase towards the end of pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Melatonin is a neuroendocrine hormone regulating biological rhythms.
- Maternal melatonin levels increase towards the end of pregnancy.
- Melatonin freely crosses the placenta, providing photoperiodic information to the fetus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the current knowledge on melatonin's role in human pregnancy.
- To summarize scientific evidence supporting melatonin's function during gestation.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing scientific literature.
- Analysis of studies investigating melatonin's physiological effects in pregnancy.
Main Results:
- Melatonin acts as a circadian rhythm modulator, endocrine modulator, and immunomodulator.
- It functions as a direct free radical scavenger, indirect antioxidant, and cytoprotective agent.
- Evidence suggests melatonin is essential for successful pregnancy outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
- It appears to be involved in managing pregnancy complications like pre-eclampsia and fetal brain damage.
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