Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 7, 2026

Author Spotlight: Investigating HR-Dependent Cardiac Function in Mouse Models Through a Novel Atrial-Pacing Approach
Published on: July 21, 2023
Melatonin in Heart Failure: A Promising Therapeutic Strategy?
Frederic Nduhirabandi1, Gerald J Maarman2
1Cardioprotection Group, Hatter Institute for Cardiovascular Research in Africa (HICRA), Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7935, South Africa. frederic.nduhirabandi@uct.ac.za.
Abstract:
Heart failure is a multifactorial clinical syndrome characterized by the inability of the heart to pump sufficient blood to the body. Despite recent advances in medical management, poor outcomes in patients with heart failure remain very high. This highlights a need for novel paradigms for effective, preventive and curative strategies. Substantial evidence supports the importance of endogenous melatonin in cardiovascular health and the benefits of melatonin supplementation in various cardiac pathologies and cardiometabolic disorders. Melatonin plays a crucial role in major pathological processes associated with heart failure including ischemic injury, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and cardiac remodeling. In this review, available evidence for the role of melatonin in heart failure is discussed. Current challenges and possible limitations of using melatonin in heart failure are also addressed. While few clinical studies have investigated the role of melatonin in the context of heart failure, current findings from experimental studies support the potential use of melatonin as preventive and adjunctive curative therapy in heart failure.
Related Concept Videos
Heart Failure II: Pathophysiology
Pathophysiology of Heart Failure
Heart Failure I: Introduction
Heart Failure VI: Adjunct Therapies
Heart Failure Drugs: Diuretics
Heart Failure V: Medical Management

