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Melatonin and the Skin: Current Progress and Perspectives for Human Health
Andrzej T Slominski1, Tae-Kang Kim2, Zorica Janjetovic2
1Department of Dermatology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA; Cancer Chemoprevention Program, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA; Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service, VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.
The Journal of Investigative Dermatology
|February 7, 2025
Summary
The skin produces active melatonin metabolites that impact skin health through various pathways. These findings support melatonin
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and molecular biology
- Skin physiology and pharmacology
Background:
- The skin possesses intrinsic mechanisms for melatonin production and metabolism.
- Melatonin and its metabolites play crucial roles in skin homeostasis and protection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the comprehensive functions of the cutaneous melatoninergic system.
- To explore the therapeutic potential of melatonin and its metabolites in dermatological applications.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of melatonin metabolic pathways in skin.
- Investigation of receptor-dependent and -independent actions of melatonin metabolites.
- Assessment of phenotypic activities including antioxidant effects and mitochondrial regulation.
Main Results:
- Skin metabolizes melatonin into active compounds with diverse biological effects.
- Melatonin metabolites interact with multiple receptors (MT1, MT2, AhR, PPARγ).
- These metabolites exhibit direct antioxidant activity and regulate mitochondrial function.
Conclusions:
- The skin's capacity to produce and utilize melatonin constitutes a functional cutaneous melatoninergic system.
- Pharmacological targeting of this system offers promising strategies for managing skin aging and disorders.
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