Melatonin in Cancer Treatment: Current Knowledge and Future Opportunities

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Wamidh H Talib1, Ahmad Riyad Alsayed1, Alaa Abuawad2

  • 1Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan.

Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|April 30, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Melatonin, a versatile molecule, demonstrates significant anticancer properties by inhibiting cancer cell growth and reducing treatment side effects. Clinical trials confirm its effectiveness as an adjuvant therapy, offering a promising foundation for novel cancer treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Endocrinology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Melatonin is a pleiotropic molecule with documented anticancer activities in vitro and in vivo.
  • Epidemiological and experimental studies suggest melatonin's role in inhibiting various cancer types.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review melatonin's biosynthesis, metabolism, bioavailability, and anticancer mechanisms.
  • To summarize clinical trial findings on melatonin as an adjuvant cancer therapy.
  • To provide a foundation for developing new melatonin-based cancer prevention and treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of studies on melatonin's anticancer effects.
  • Analysis of experimental and epidemiological data.
  • Summary of clinical trial outcomes and pharmaceutical formulations.

Main Results:

  • Melatonin exhibits multiple anticancer mechanisms, including apoptosis induction and proliferation inhibition.
  • It reduces tumor growth, metastasis, and chemotherapy/radiotherapy side effects.
  • Melatonin enhances conventional cancer therapies and decreases drug resistance.
  • Clinical trials establish melatonin as an effective adjuvant to standard treatments.

Conclusions:

  • Melatonin possesses significant anticancer potential through diverse mechanisms.
  • It serves as a valuable adjuvant therapy, improving outcomes and reducing side effects.
  • Further research based on this review can guide the development of novel cancer therapies.
Keywords:
anticancercancer therapyhormonal therapyphytomelatoninpineal gland

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