Melatonin targeting non-coding RNAs in cancer: Focus on mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets

Alireza Mafi1, Atoosa Keshavarzmotamed2, Neda Hedayati3

  • 1Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran; Nutrition and Food Security Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.

Insights

Melatonin, known for circadian rhythm, also inhibits cancer by modulating non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). This research explores melatonin

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Melatonin is recognized for regulating circadian rhythms but also plays roles in redox homeostasis and programmed cell death.
  • Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are increasingly understood for their roles in disease, especially cancer, by modulating gene expression.
  • Emerging evidence suggests melatonin influences ncRNA expression in various conditions, including cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the potential of melatonin in modulating non-coding RNA (ncRNA) expression.
  • To explore the molecular pathways influenced by melatonin-ncRNA interactions in cancer.
  • To highlight the therapeutic and translational potential of melatonin in cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Review and synthesis of existing scientific literature on melatonin, ncRNAs, and cancer.
  • Analysis of molecular pathways involved in melatonin-mediated regulation of ncRNAs.
  • Discussion of therapeutic strategies targeting melatonin-ncRNA interactions for cancer treatment.

Main Results:

  • Melatonin demonstrates an inhibitory effect on tumorigenic processes.
  • Melatonin impacts the expression of various ncRNAs, influencing key cellular processes like proliferation, metabolism, and apoptosis.
  • The interplay between melatonin and ncRNAs offers novel therapeutic avenues in oncology.

Conclusions:

  • Melatonin shows promise as an adjuvant therapy for cancer due to its ability to modulate ncRNA expression.
  • Understanding melatonin-ncRNA interactions is crucial for developing innovative cancer treatments.
  • Further research into translational medicine applications of melatonin in oncology is warranted.

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