Abstract
Melatonin, known as a hormone specific to the pineal gland, is also produced in other organs of the body such as the retina and gastrointestinal tract (GI), and is much more abundant in the GI compared to the pineal gland. Melatonin in the pineal gland plays an important role in the circadian rhythm, while extra-pineal melatonin does not play such a role and acts as a potent antioxidant. Due to its dual lipophilic and hydrophilic properties, this indoleamine crosses all the barriers within the body and exerts its effects through MT1 and MT2 receptors. Melatonin exerts its antioxidant effects directly and indirectly, and plays an important antioxidant role by increasing the expression and function of antioxidants and reducing the expression of genes involved in the production of free radicals. In addition to studies on the effects of melatonin on sleep disorders, the role of this potent antioxidant in many diseases including inflammation, neurodegenerative diseases, gastrointestinal diseases and cancer has been investigated and its significant effects on patients’ health have been observed. Accordingly, in this chapter we will review the properties of melatonin as an antioxidant and its beneficial effects in various diseases.
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