Melatonin may have a role in the pathogenesis of functional dyspepsia in males

Pathogenesis of functional dyspepsia (FD) is complex. Melatonin is synthesized in enterochromaffin cells (EC) of the digestive system. It may influence gut function. The aim of this study is to evaluate the serum melatonin levels in FD patients.

A total of 57 FD patients, and 12 healthy controls were enrolled in this study between 2008-2010 years. Diagnosis of FD was established based on the Rome III Criteria. Blood samples were taken at 10 a.m. and serum samples were stored in -85°C. Serum melatonin levels were determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. (polyclonal Kennaway G280 anti-melatonin antibody, Bühlmann Laboratories AG, Schönenbuch, Switzerland).

Twenty-three (40.3%) patients were male, and, mean age was 44.3 ± 12.1 years. Mean age of control group was 38.5 ± 11.8 years, and 7 of them were male. The mean serum concentration of melatonin in patients and control group were 31.19 ± 43.4 pg/ml and 14.8 ± 20.9 pg/ml, respectively (p < 0.05). Melatonin levels were significantly higher in male patients (38.6 ± 55 pg/ml vs 12.8 ± 22 pg/ml, p < 0.05). However, melatonin levels were similar in females (p > 0.05).

The serum melatonin levels were significantly higher in male patients with functional dyspepsia. High nocturnal melatonin secretion may play a role in the pathogenesis of functional dyspepsia, especially in males.