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Targeting cancer stem cells by melatonin: Effective therapy for cancer treatment
Nazila Fathi Maroufi1, Vahid Vahedian2, Saideh Hemati3
1Stem Cell And Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
Abstract:
Melatonin is a physiological hormone produced by the pineal gland. In recent decades, enormous investigations showed that melatonin can prompt apoptosis in cancer cells and inhibit tumor metastasis and angiogenesis in variety of malignancies such as ovarian, melanoma, colon, and breast cancer; therefore, its possible therapeutic usage in cancer treatment was confirmed. CSCs, which has received much attention from researchers in past decades, are major challenges in the treatment of cancer. Because CSCs are resistant to chemotherapeutic drugs and cause recurrence of cancer and also have the ability to be regenerated; they can cause serious problems in the treatment of various cancers. For these reasons, the researchers are trying to find a solution to destroy these cells within the tumor mass. In recent years, the effect of melatonin on CSCs has been investigated in some cancers. Given the importance of CSCs in the process of cancer treatment, this article reviewed the studies conducted on the effect of melatonin on CSCs as a solution to the problems caused by CSCs in the treatment of various cancers.
Insights
Melatonin, a natural hormone, shows promise in cancer therapy by targeting cancer stem cells (CSCs). This review explores melatonin
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Melatonin is a hormone with demonstrated anti-cancer properties, including apoptosis induction and inhibition of metastasis and angiogenesis.
- Cancer stem cells (CSCs) present a significant challenge in cancer treatment due to their resistance to therapies and role in tumor recurrence.
- Targeting CSCs is crucial for developing more effective cancer treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing research on the effects of melatonin on cancer stem cells (CSCs).
- To evaluate melatonin's potential as a therapeutic agent against CSCs in various cancers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating melatonin's impact on CSCs.
- Analysis of research data on melatonin's mechanisms against CSCs.
Main Results:
- Melatonin has been shown to affect CSCs in several types of cancer.
- Studies indicate melatonin may offer a strategy to overcome CSC-mediated treatment resistance.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin demonstrates potential in targeting cancer stem cells.
- Further research into melatonin's role in cancer therapy, particularly against CSCs, is warranted.