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Updated: Jan 22, 2026
08:43
Orthotopic Mouse Model of Colorectal Cancer
Published on: December 4, 2007
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Melatonin: An important anticancer agent in colorectal cancer
Mohammad Mirza-Aghazadeh-Attari1,2, Amir Mohammadzadeh1,2, Soroush Mostavafi1,2
1Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
Journal of Cellular Physiology
|July 6, 2019
Summary
Melatonin, a circadian rhythm hormone, shows promise in colorectal cancer treatment by regulating cell signaling pathways. This review explores its potential role in enhancing conventional therapies and its anticancer effects.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent malignancy, particularly in the elderly, but also occurs in younger individuals via hereditary syndromes.
- Dysregulated cellular signaling pathways are central to CRC pathology.
- Melatonin, a neuro-hormone crucial for circadian rhythm, modulates various signaling pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the significance of melatonin in colorectal cancer.
- To explore the potential clinical applications of melatonin in CRC treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on melatonin and colorectal cancer.
- Analysis of melatonin's effects on cellular signaling, immune function, and tumor microenvironment.
- Examination of melatonin's role in apoptosis, proliferation, migration, and invasion.
Main Results:
- Melatonin modulates key signaling pathways implicated in CRC.
- It exhibits antioxidant properties and influences the tumor microenvironment and immune function.
- Studies indicate melatonin can induce apoptosis, enhance sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and inhibit cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin demonstrates significant potential as an adjuvant therapy for colorectal cancer.
- Further clinical research is warranted to establish its therapeutic efficacy and optimal use in CRC management.
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