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Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model

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Melatonin protection from chronic, low-level ionizing radiation.

Russel J Reiter¹, Ahmet Korkmaz, Shuran Ma

¹Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, United States.

Mutation Research. Reviews in Mutation Research

|December 22, 2011

Summary

Melatonin, a natural molecule, protects against ionizing radiation damage to DNA and lipids. Its antioxidant properties make it a safe and effective agent for protecting populations from radioactive contamination.

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Area of Science:

Biochemistry
Radiation Biology
Pharmacology

Background:

Ionizing radiation poses risks to cellular macromolecules.
Melatonin is an endogenous molecule with known antioxidant properties.

Purpose of the Study:

To review literature supporting melatonin's protective effects against ionizing radiation.
To assess melatonin's efficacy in preventing radiation-induced DNA and lipid damage.

Main Methods:

In vitro studies exposing DNA to radiation with and without melatonin.
In vivo/in vitro studies with human lymphocytes from melatonin-consuming individuals exposed to radiation.
In vivo animal studies administering melatonin before radiation exposure.

Main Results:

Melatonin protected both cellular and plasmid DNA from radiation damage in vitro.
Human lymphocytes from melatonin consumers showed less DNA damage post-radiation.
Animal studies demonstrated reduced DNA and lipid damage, and lower mortality rates with melatonin treatment.

Conclusions:

Melatonin is a potent scavenger of free radicals and may stimulate antioxidant enzymes, conferring protection against ionizing radiation.
Melatonin is safe, well-absorbed, and easily administered, making it suitable for protecting large populations from radioactive contamination.