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Effects of Melatonin on the Expression of Invasion-Related Markers (MMP2 and MMP9) in Breast Cancer Cells

  • 0Department of Molecular Genetics, Ahar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ahar, Iran.
Journal of Cellular Biochemistry +

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March 16, 2025

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March 16, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Melatonin, a natural hormone, significantly inhibits breast cancer cell migration and spread. This effect is linked to increased melatonin receptor (MT1/MT2) expression and reduced matrix metalloproteinase (MMP2/MMP9) levels.

Area Of Science

  • Oncology
  • Endocrinology
  • Molecular Biology

Background

  • Breast cancer metastasis is a primary cause of mortality in women.
  • Melatonin, a natural hormone, is being investigated for its potential anti-cancer properties.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate the effects of melatonin on breast cancer cell migration and invasion.
  • To analyze the impact of melatonin on melatonin receptors (MT1, MT2) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP2, MMP9) expression.

Main Methods

  • Utilized MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines.
  • Determined effective melatonin doses via MTT assay.
  • Assessed cell migration using wound-healing assay and gene expression via Real-Time RT-PCR.

Main Results

  • Melatonin (2.5 and 3.5 µM) significantly reduced cell migration in both cell lines after 48 hours.
  • Melatonin treatment decreased MMP2 and MMP9 expression.
  • Melatonin increased MT1 and MT2 receptor expression in both cell lines.

Conclusions

  • Melatonin demonstrates potential in inhibiting breast cancer cell movement and metastasis.
  • The mechanism involves upregulating MT1/MT2 receptors, leading to reduced MMP2/MMP9 expression.

Keywords: