[Melatonin. II. Physiological and therapeutic effects].
Melatonin is a hormone mainly secreted by the pineal gland during the dark phase of the light-dark cycle. The most known function of melatonin in mammals is to transmit information concerning light-dark cycles playing the role of an active neuroendocrine transducer of environmental information. Given this chronobiologic role of pineal melatonin, it seems to be useful in the management of shift work, jet lag and some sleep disorders. In vitro like in vivo melatonin seems to be effective as an antioxidant and oncostatic agent. Melatonin may provide protection against aging process, degenerative diseases, cancer and play a role also in sexual maturation, reproduction, immune function and psychiatric illness. The administration of melatonin in the jet-lag syndrome is well codified. Further clinical research is needed for a better understanding and definition of other indications, treatment regimens and safety of the hormone. The aim of this paper is to review the current knowledge on its clinical implications.
Bruls
E
E
Service d'Endocrinologie, Université de Liège.
Crasson
M
M
Van Reeth
O
O
Legros
J J
JJ
D016588:Anticarcinogenic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000975:Antioxidants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002909:Chronobiology Phenomena; D002940:Circadian Rhythm / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D020179:Jet Lag Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy; D008550:Melatonin / Q000502:physiology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D009490:Neurosecretory Systems / Q000502:physiology; D010870:Pineal Gland / Q000502:physiology; D020011:Protective Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012893:Sleep Wake Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy; D014940:Work Schedule Tolerance / Q000502:physiology
D016588:Anticarcinogenic Agents; D000975:Antioxidants; D020011:Protective Agents; D008550:Melatonin