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Melatonin in aging women
A Yarci Gursoy1, M Kiseli1, G S Caglar1
1a Ufuk University Faculty of Medicine , Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Ankara , Turkey.
Summary
Melatonin, a key hormone for circadian rhythm, declines with age, particularly in women during menopause. This review explores the effects of reduced melatonin and potential benefits of replacement therapies.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
Background:
- Melatonin, a pineal gland neurohormone, regulates circadian rhythm and is influenced by light.
- Altered melatonin levels are linked to sleep disorders, skeletal and immune system modulation, metabolism, and antioxidant functions.
- Melatonin levels decrease with age, a phenomenon poorly understood, especially in aging women coinciding with menopause.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of altered melatonin levels in aging women.
- To summarize the outcomes of exogenous melatonin replacement therapies in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on melatonin in aging women.
- Analysis of research on menopause-related melatonin changes.
- Evaluation of clinical trial data for melatonin replacement therapies.
Main Results:
- Age-related decline in melatonin affects various physiological systems.
- Menopause is associated with decreased melatonin levels in women.
- Exogenous melatonin may offer therapeutic benefits, but further research is needed.
Conclusions:
- Altered melatonin levels significantly impact aging women's health.
- Melatonin replacement therapy warrants further investigation for menopausal symptoms and age-related conditions.
- Understanding melatonin's role is crucial for addressing health challenges in aging women.
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