Melatonin Receptors and Their Role in Human Diseases
October 2013
in “
Springer eBooks
”
TLDR Melatonin receptors, found in many body parts, can help treat various diseases like depression and diabetes due to their effects on inflammation, tumor progression, sleep disorders, and body mass regulation.
The 2013 document discussed the role of melatonin receptors, MT₁ and MT₂, in various human diseases. Melatonin, primarily synthesized in the pineal gland, was found to have antioxidative effects, induce anti-inflammatory genes, and potentially influence tumor progression. It was also found to affect the expression of clock genes, potentially aiding in the treatment of depression and sleep disorders. Melatonin receptors were found in various parts of the body, including the heart, aorta, prostate, breast tissue, uterus, gastrointestinal tract, skin, and immune system. Melatonin was found to have vasodilatory effects, inhibit the proliferation of certain cancer cells, modulate ion transport processes, potentially affect hair growth, and modulate the synthesis and secretion of cytokines. It was also found to affect energy expenditure and body mass regulation. The document concluded that melatonin receptors open new therapeutic options for various diseases, including depression and diabetes.
