Melatonin as a multifunctional anti-cancer molecule: Implications in gastric cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Gastric cancer (GC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally, with multifactorial etiology.
• Current GC treatments have limitations and necessitate improved therapeutic strategies with reduced adverse effects.
• Melatonin, a natural compound, exhibits potent anti-cancer properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing literature on the therapeutic effects of melatonin in gastric cancer models.
• To classify melatonin's effects based on cancer pathogenesis and molecular mechanisms.
• To explore melatonin's potential as an adjunct therapy for gastric cancer.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of articles investigating melatonin's effects on gastric cancer.
• Classification of findings according to cancer cell formation, tumor growth, angiogenesis, differentiation, metastasis, and anti-tumor immunity.
• Analysis of molecular mechanisms underlying melatonin's anti-cancer actions.

Main Results:

• Melatonin demonstrates pleiotropic anti-cancer effects, impacting multiple facets of gastric cancer pathogenesis.
• Melatonin inhibits cancer cell formation, tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis.
• Melatonin enhances anti-tumor immunity and may mitigate side effects of conventional therapies.

Conclusions:

• Melatonin is a promising natural compound with significant potential for combating gastric cancer through diverse molecular mechanisms.
• Its ability to target multiple aspects of cancer progression and reduce treatment side effects highlights its therapeutic value.
• Further research is essential to fully elucidate melatonin's mechanisms and optimize its application in novel gastric cancer treatments.