Melatonin: circadian rhythm regulator, chronobiotic, antioxidant and beyond.
For many years, melatonin has been known to interact with circadian rhythms. New evidence indicates that melatonin acts as a free radical scavenger and antioxidant. Moreover, melatonin prevents apoptosis in different types of cells, because it induces mRNA levels of several antioxidant enzymes. It is evident that melatonin is involved in the cellular bioenergetic system as a mechanism that counteracts the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Berra
Bruno
B
Institute of General Physiology and Biochemistry, Giovanni Esposito, University of Milan, Faculty of Pharmacy, Via Trentacoste 2, Milan 20134, Italy. bruno.berra@unimi.it
Rizzo
Angela Maria
AM
D000818:Animals; D000975:Antioxidants / Q000502:physiology*; D002940:Circadian Rhythm / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008550:Melatonin / Q000502:physiology*; D012893:Sleep Wake Disorders / Q000209:etiology
D000975:Antioxidants; D008550:Melatonin