Abstract
Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is a ubiquitous molecule present in animals and plants, and also in bacteria and fungi. In plants, it has an important regulatory and protective role in the face of different stress situations in which it can be involved, mainly due to its immobility. Both in the presence of biotic and abiotic stressors, melatonin exerts protective action in which, through significant changes in gene expression, it activates a stress tolerance response. Its anti-stress role, along with other outstanding functions, suggests its possible use in active agricultural management. This review establishes considerations that are necessary for its possible authorization. The particular characteristics of this substance and its categorization as plant biostimulant are discussed, and also the different legal aspects within the framework of the European Community. The advantages and disadvantages are also described of two of its possible applications, as a plant protector or biostimulant, in accordance with legal provisions.
Highlights
Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is a biogenic amine derived from the amino acid tryptophan, which was discovered in 1958 in the cow pineal gland by Lerner and cols
Subjecting plants to a stressful levels of plant hormones involved response situation—which leads in to anthe increase in endogenous levels of melatonin—or treatment withIn addition, the recent exogenous melatonin, results in a stress tolerance response mediated by specific stress response identification of a melatonin receptor in Arabidopsis thaliana has opened new expectations related to its factors and changes in the endogenous levels of plant hormones involved in the response
In accordance with the Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP, EC-No 1272/2008) regulation, which is based on the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System, which has a purpose to ensure a high level of protection of health and the environment, as well as the free movement of substances, mixtures and articles, the European Chemical Agency (ECHA) classified melatonin (EC No 200-797-7 (CAS 73-31-4), N-(2-(5-methoxyindol-3-yl)-ethyl)-acetamide), as a non-hazardous substance in terms of physical and chemical hazards
Summary
Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is a biogenic amine derived from the amino acid tryptophan, which was discovered in 1958 in the cow pineal gland by Lerner and cols. [1]. It was detected in humans and its chemical structure was elucidated This molecule, which was initially only related to changes in the structure of melanocytes in amphibians, fish and reptiles, was soon found to act as a neurohormone in mammals [2,3]. Agronomy 2019, 9, 570 several studies have demonstrated its role in processes such as seed germination, growth and the development of seedlings, leaves and roots It takes part in organogenesis processes such as rooting and fruiting, and in processes of leaf and fruit senescence. It acts as a protector of the photosynthetic and stomatic system, and as a regulator of various enzymes of the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, nitrogen, sulfur and phosphorus. Current legislation of the EC, is taken into account and the advantages and disadvantages of its use in plant crops destined for animal and human consumption are analyzed
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
