The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): Key Emphasis on Melatonin Safety and Therapeutic Efficacy

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Virology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Viral infections like COVID-19 disrupt host physiology, triggering immune responses.
• Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is characterized by increased oxidative stress and reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (RONS).
• Melatonin is a key regulator of homeostasis with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-stimulant properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential protective role of melatonin against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• To investigate melatonin's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating effects in the context of COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing preclinical and clinical studies on melatonin's effects in respiratory diseases.
• Analysis of melatonin's known mechanisms of action in relation to SARS-CoV-2 pathophysiology.
• Evaluation of melatonin's potential to mitigate oxidative stress and support host defense.

Main Results:

• Melatonin's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions can counteract the RONS overproduction during SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• Its immune-stimulant properties may enhance the host's ability to combat the virus.
• Evidence from other respiratory diseases suggests melatonin's therapeutic potential.

Conclusions:

• Melatonin presents a promising multi-protective agent against COVID-19 due to its combined antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-stimulant functions.
• Its efficacy may extend to emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, offering sustained protection.
• Targeting host defense mechanisms with melatonin could be a viable strategy in managing viral infections.