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Melatonin hybrids as multifunctional therapeutic agents: A comprehensive review
Elham Khayer Damirchi1, Amin Barani1, Seyyed Mohammad Hamidi1
1Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, 48471-93698, Iran.
European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
|July 19, 2026
Summary
Melatonin-based hybrid compounds show promise for treating complex diseases like Alzheimer's and cancer. This drug design strategy enhances therapeutic efficacy and reduces toxicity by combining melatonin with other active molecules.
Area of Science:
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Pharmacology
- Drug Design
Background:
- Melatonin is a hormone with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties.
- Compound hybridization is an emerging strategy to develop novel therapeutics.
- Hybrid molecules aim to improve efficacy and reduce toxicity of individual components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pharmacological assessment and therapeutic potential of melatonin-based hybrid compounds.
- To explore the application of these hybrids in treating complex diseases.
- To highlight the advantages of melatonin hybridization in drug design.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on melatonin-based hybrid compounds.
- Pharmacological evaluation of synthesized hybrid molecules.
- Assessment of therapeutic efficacy in various disease models.
Main Results:
- Melatonin hybrids demonstrate enhanced binding affinity, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic profiles.
- Significant efficacy observed in treating Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and inflammatory disorders.
- Hybridization yields novel structures with improved therapeutic outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Melatonin-based hybrids represent a promising new generation of therapeutic agents.
- Compound hybridization is a valuable strategy for developing advanced treatments.
- These hybrids offer a potent approach for managing complex and challenging diseases.
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