Melatonin in ovarian function and dysfunction: Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology
• Endocrinology
• Molecular medicine

Background:

• Melatonin (MT) is a crucial indoleamine regulating circadian rhythms.
• MT possesses significant antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties.
• Emerging evidence links MT to alleviating ovarian disorders such as PCOS and POI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the multifaceted mechanisms of melatonin in ovarian health and disease.
• To establish an integrated model of ovarian disorder pathogenesis and melatonin's regulatory role.
• To review melatonin's potential in treating ovarian tumors.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of studies on melatonin and ovarian function.
• Analysis of interconnected pathological pathways including oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and autophagy.
• Synthesis of evidence on melatonin's therapeutic effects in ovarian disorders and tumors.

Main Results:

• Melatonin counteracts key pathological pathways implicated in ovarian disorders.
• Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and autophagic imbalance are central to ovarian pathogenesis.
• Melatonin demonstrates inhibitory effects against ovarian tumors.

Conclusions:

• Melatonin acts as a pleiotropic regulator, mitigating interconnected pathways in ovarian disorders.
• MT shows significant promise for treating ovarian conditions like PCOS, POI, and ovarian injury.
• Further investigation into optimal dosage and administration is required for clinical translation of melatonin therapy.