Melatonin, a hormone primarily known for regulating circadian rhythms, has shown considerable potential in cancer prevention and treatment across various types of tumors. Evidence from epidemiological, experimental, and clinical studies indicates that melatonin possesses significant oncostatic properties, exerting growth inhibition effects on tumor cells in vitro and in animal models. The anticancer mechanisms of melatonin are multifaceted, encompassing antioxidant activity, modulation of melatonin receptors (MT1 and MT2), induction of apoptosis, regulation of tumor metabolism, and inhibition of angiogenesis and metastasis.
Recent studies have highlighted the role of melatonin in epigenetic regulation, particularly through the modification of DNA methylation, histone changes, and the impact of non-coding RNAs, contributing to its anticancer effects. Melatonin’s ability to counteract the inhibitory effects of artificial light at night (ALAN) on its secretion and subsequent epigenetic alterations has further emphasized its therapeutic potential, especially in hormone-related cancers like breast cancer.
Additionally, melatonin demonstrates a synergistic effect when used alongside standard cancer therapies such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, enhancing treatment efficacy while mitigating adverse side effects. Recent advancements in nanotechnology have also improved the delivery and bioavailability of melatonin, expanding its therapeutic applications in oncology. The nontoxic nature of melatonin, combined with its broad range of anticancer mechanisms, makes it a promising candidate for integrative cancer therapy, offering potential benefits in overcoming chemoresistance and reducing treatment-associated toxicity.
References:
https://doi.org/10.18632/oncotarget.16379
