New perspectives in melatonin uses

This review summarizes the metabolism, secretion, regulation and sites of action of melatonin. An updated description of the melatonin receptors, including their signal transduction mechanisms, distribution and characterization of receptor genes, is given. Special emphasis is focused on the clinical...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Pharmacological research 2012-04, Vol.65 (4), p.437-444
Main Authors: Carpentieri, A., Díaz de Barboza, G., Areco, V., Peralta López, M., Tolosa de Talamoni, N.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Animals
Antioxidant properties
Antioxidants - metabolism
Antioxidants - pharmacology
Antioxidants - therapeutic use
Cancer
Central nervous system
Central Nervous System - metabolism
Gastrointestinal tract
Gastrointestinal Tract - metabolism
Humans
Immune System - metabolism
Melatonin - metabolism
Melatonin - pharmacology
Melatonin - therapeutic use
Melatonin receptors
Mitochondria - metabolism
Neoplasms - drug therapy
Neoplasms - metabolism
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Summary:This review summarizes the metabolism, secretion, regulation and sites of action of melatonin. An updated description of the melatonin receptors, including their signal transduction mechanisms, distribution and characterization of receptor genes, is given. Special emphasis is focused on the clinical aspects and potential uses of melatonin in the sleep-wake rhythms, in the immune function, in cancer therapy, in neuroprotection against oxidative damage and antioxidant activities in different tissues. Finally, combined effects of melatonin with other drugs are discussed.
ISSN:1043-6618
1096-1186
DOI:10.1016/j.phrs.2012.01.003