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Published on: July 30, 2016
Distribution, function and physiological role of melatonin in the lower gut
Chun-Qiu Chen1, Jakub Fichna, Mohammad Bashashati
1Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 200072 Shanghai, China.
World Journal of Gastroenterology
|October 26, 2011
Summary
Melatonin, a hormone found abundantly in the gut, plays a key role in gastrointestinal functions. Research explores its potential therapeutic benefits for lower gut diseases like irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Melatonin is a hormone with significant endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine functions.
- The gastrointestinal (GI) system extensively utilizes melatonin for regulation under various conditions.
- The gut harbors substantially higher melatonin levels than the pineal gland, indicating localized importance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the functional significance of melatonin within the lower gastrointestinal tract.
- To synthesize current knowledge on melatonin's effects in GI physiology and pathology.
- To evaluate melatonin's potential as a future therapeutic agent for lower gut disorders.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature, including in vitro and in vivo studies.
- Analysis of basic research and clinical trial data concerning melatonin's role in the gut.
- Examination of melatonin's interaction with its receptors (MT1, MT2, MT3) in the GI tract.
Main Results:
- Melatonin receptors (MT1, MT2, MT3) are present in the gut, influencing motility, inflammation, and pain.
- Evidence suggests local synthesis of melatonin in the lower gut, independent of the pineal gland.
- Human studies indicate both potential benefits and harms of melatonin in GI diseases like IBS, IBD, and colorectal cancer.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin possesses significant physiological and pathophysiological roles in the lower gastrointestinal tract.
- Endogenous melatonin likely plays a crucial role in maintaining gut health.
- Further investigation is warranted to establish melatonin's efficacy and safety for treating lower gut diseases.
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