Melatonin and breast cancer: cellular mechanisms, clinical studies and future perspectives

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Oncology
• Cellular Biology

Background:

• Emerging research suggests the pineal hormone melatonin possesses protective effects against breast cancer.
• Understanding the mechanisms of melatonin's action is crucial for its clinical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the cellular mechanisms by which melatonin exerts its effects.
• To explore the potential of melatonin in breast cancer prevention and treatment.
• To identify strategies for improving clinical outcomes using melatonin therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on melatonin's cellular mechanisms and breast cancer.
• Analysis of melatonin's receptor-dependent and independent pathways.
• Evaluation of melatonin's role in oestrogen-dependent pathways and free-radical scavenging.

Main Results:

• Melatonin reduces cellular proliferation and induces differentiation via receptor pathways.
• Melatonin modulates oestrogen pathways and reduces free radicals independently of receptors.
• These actions collectively contribute to preventing mutations and cellular toxicity.

Conclusions:

• Melatonin's multifaceted protective signaling cascades position it as a promising agent for cancer prevention and treatment.
• Further clinical investigation is warranted to optimize melatonin's use in breast cancer management.
• Melatonin holds potential for improving patient outcomes in clinical settings.