Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 3, 2026
Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
Urinary melatonin levels and skin malignancy
Reza Ghaderi1, Samineh Sehatbakhsh2, Mehdi Bakhshaee2
1Department of Dermatology, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran;
Abstract:
Melatonin inhibits tumor genesis in a variety of in vivo and in vitro experimental models of neoplasia. In industrialized societies, light at night, by suppressing melatonin production, poses a new risk for the development of a variety of cancers such as breast cancer. This effect on skin has been previously studied only in animals and not in humans. Our goal was to examine the relationship between 24-hour 6-sulphatoxymelatonin levels and skin cancer in a case-control study of 70 patients with skin cancer and 70 healthy individuals. The level of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin was measured in 24-hour urine by the ELISA method. In the case group, 55 (78%) patients had basal cell carcinoma and 15 (22%) had squamous cell carcinoma. The mean level of 24-hour urine 6-sulfatoxymelatonin was significantly higher in the control group (P<0.001). Also, sleep duration had a significant difference between the two groups (P=0.001). It seems that a low level of 24-hour urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin renders human beings prone to skin cancer. This association, however, requires further investigation.
Insights
Low melatonin levels, indicated by reduced 24-hour urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin, may increase skin cancer risk in humans. This study found significantly lower melatonin levels in skin cancer patients compared to healthy controls.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Melatonin is known to inhibit tumor development in various experimental models.
- Light at night suppresses melatonin, potentially increasing cancer risk, including skin cancer.
- Previous research on light-at-night effects on skin cancer was limited to animal studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between 24-hour urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin levels and the risk of developing skin cancer in humans.
- To compare melatonin levels in individuals with skin cancer versus healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 70 patients with skin cancer and 70 healthy controls.
- Measurement of 24-hour urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin using the ELISA method.
- Analysis of skin cancer types, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Main Results:
- Mean 24-hour urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin levels were significantly higher in the healthy control group (P<0.001).
- Skin cancer patients exhibited lower levels of 24-hour urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin.
- Sleep duration differed significantly between the case and control groups (P=0.001).
Conclusions:
- Lower 24-hour urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin levels appear to be associated with an increased susceptibility to skin cancer in humans.
- Further research is warranted to confirm this association and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
More Related Videos
![Chemical-Induced Skin Carcinogenesis Model Using Dimethylbenz[a]Anthracene and 12-O-Tetradecanoyl Phorbol-13-Acetate DMBA-TPA](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront.jove.com%2FCDNSource%2Fteasers%2F60445.jpg&w=3840&q=50)
Related Concept Videos
01:14Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
01:30Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
01:19Pigmentation
Melanin occurs in two primary forms: eumelanin that provides black and brown pigment and pheomelanin that provides red color. Dark-skinned individuals produce more melanin than those with pale...
01:19Management of Insomnia