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Melatonin and alcohol-related disorders
Natalia Kurhaluk1, Halyna Tkachenko1
1Department of Zoology and Animal Physiology, Institute of Biology and Earth Sciences, Pomeranian University in Słupsk , Słupsk, Poland.
Chronobiology International
|May 19, 2020
Summary
Melatonin (Mel) may protect against alcohol-related disorders by combating oxidative stress and circadian disruption. This hormone regulates sleep-wake cycles and offers antioxidant benefits, potentially mitigating alcohol
Area of Science:
- Chronobiology and Toxicology
- Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Neuroendocrinology and Immunology
Background:
- Ethanol consumption disrupts circadian rhythms, leading to desynchronosis and exacerbating alcohol-related pathologies.
- Alcohol abuse induces oxidative stress and inflammation, characterized by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lysosomal enzyme activity, indicating tissue damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of melatonin's role in mitigating alcohol-related disorders.
- To explore the relationship between ethanol, circadian disruption, oxidative stress, inflammation, and melatonin's protective mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Literature review synthesizing research on melatonin, ethanol, oxidative stress, and circadian rhythms.
- Analysis of studies linking alcohol-induced inflammation, ROS production, and lysosomal enzyme activity.
- Examination of melatonin's antioxidant properties and its influence on neuroendocrine and immune systems.
Main Results:
- Ethanol suppresses melatonin production and disrupts circadian rhythms (desynchronosis), contributing to alcohol toxicity.
- Melatonin exhibits significant antioxidant properties, counteracting ROS and reducing inflammation associated with alcohol abuse.
- Melatonin influences neurotransmitter systems, synchronizes circadian rhythms, and supports homeostasis, offering protection against alcohol-induced stress.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin's circadian-regulating and antioxidant functions suggest its potential therapeutic value in preventing and managing alcohol-related disorders.
- Maintaining melatonin rhythmicity and leveraging its protective effects could be key strategies against alcohol-induced cellular damage and dysfunction.
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