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Horodincu L, Solcan C. Influence of Different Light Spectra on Melatonin Synthesis by the Pineal Gland and Influence on the Immune System in Chickens. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2095. [PMID: 37443893 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well known that the pineal gland in birds influences behavioural and physiological functions, including those of the immune system. The purpose of this research is to examine the endocrine-immune correlations between melatonin and immune system activity. Through a description of the immune-pineal axis, we formulated the objective to determine and describe: the development of the pineal gland; how light influences secretory activity; and how melatonin influences the activity of primary and secondary lymphoid organs. The pineal gland has the ability to turn light information into an endocrine signal suitable for the immune system via the membrane receptors Mel1a, Mel1b, and Mel1c, as well as the nuclear receptors RORα, RORβ, and RORγ. We can state the following findings: green monochromatic light (560 nm) increased serum melatonin levels and promoted a stronger humoral and cellular immune response by proliferating B and T lymphocytes; the combination of green and blue monochromatic light (560-480 nm) ameliorated the inflammatory response and protected lymphoid organs from oxidative stress; and red monochromatic light (660 nm) maintained the inflammatory response and promoted the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Melatonin can be considered a potent antioxidant and immunomodulator and is a critical element in the coordination between external light stimulation and the body's internal response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Horodincu
- Preclinics Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, "Ion Ionescu de la Brad" Iasi University of Life Sciences, Mihail Sadoveanu Alley, 700489 Iasi, Romania
| | - Carmen Solcan
- Preclinics Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, "Ion Ionescu de la Brad" Iasi University of Life Sciences, Mihail Sadoveanu Alley, 700489 Iasi, Romania
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Light-Induced Functional Pinealectomy. Effect on the Thymus of C57BL/6 Mice. Bull Exp Biol Med 2022; 174:152-158. [DOI: 10.1007/s10517-022-05665-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Kvetnoy I, Ivanov D, Mironova E, Evsyukova I, Nasyrov R, Kvetnaia T, Polyakova V. Melatonin as the Cornerstone of Neuroimmunoendocrinology. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031835. [PMID: 35163757 PMCID: PMC8836571 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Much attention has been recently drawn to studying melatonin – a hormone whose synthesis was first found in the epiphysis (pineal gland). This interest can be due to discovering the role of melatonin in numerous physiological processes. It was the discovery of melatonin synthesis in endocrine organs (pineal gland), neural structures (Purkinje cells in the cerebellum, retinal photoreceptors), and immunocompetent cells (T lymphocytes, NK cells, mast cells) that triggered the evolution of new approaches to the unifield signal regulation of homeostasis, which, at the turn of the 21st century, lead to the creation of a new integral biomedical discipline — neuroimmunoendocrinology. While numerous hormones have been verified over the last decade outside the “classical” locations of their formation, melatonin occupies an exclusive position with regard to the diversity of locations where it is synthesized and secreted. This review provides an overview and discussion of the major data regarding the role of melatonin in various physiological and pathological processes, which affords grounds for considering melatonin as the “cornerstone” on which neuroimmunoendocrinology has been built as an integral concept of homeostasis regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Kvetnoy
- Center of Molecular Biomedicine, Saint-Petersburg Research Institute of Phthisiopulmonology, 191036 Saint-Petersburg, Russia;
- Department of Physiology and Department of Pathology, Saint-Petersburg State University, 199034 Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Dmitry Ivanov
- Department of Pathology, Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, 194100 Saint-Petersburg, Russia; (D.I.); (R.N.); (V.P.)
| | - Ekaterina Mironova
- Center of Molecular Biomedicine, Saint-Petersburg Research Institute of Phthisiopulmonology, 191036 Saint-Petersburg, Russia;
- Department of Biogerontology, Saint Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, 197110 Saint-Petersburg, Russia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Inna Evsyukova
- Department of Perinatal Pathology, Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, 199034 Saint-Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Ruslan Nasyrov
- Department of Pathology, Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, 194100 Saint-Petersburg, Russia; (D.I.); (R.N.); (V.P.)
| | - Tatiana Kvetnaia
- Department of Biogerontology, Saint Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, 197110 Saint-Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Victoria Polyakova
- Department of Pathology, Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, 194100 Saint-Petersburg, Russia; (D.I.); (R.N.); (V.P.)
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Won E, Na KS, Kim YK. Associations between Melatonin, Neuroinflammation, and Brain Alterations in Depression. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010305. [PMID: 35008730 PMCID: PMC8745430 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pro-inflammatory systemic conditions that can cause neuroinflammation and subsequent alterations in brain regions involved in emotional regulation have been suggested as an underlying mechanism for the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). A prominent feature of MDD is disruption of circadian rhythms, of which melatonin is considered a key moderator, and alterations in the melatonin system have been implicated in MDD. Melatonin is involved in immune system regulation and has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties in inflammatory conditions, through both immunological and non-immunological actions. Melatonin has been suggested as a highly cytoprotective and neuroprotective substance and shown to stimulate all stages of neuroplasticity in animal models. The ability of melatonin to suppress inflammatory responses through immunological and non-immunological actions, thus influencing neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity, along with subsequent alterations in brain regions that are implicated in depression, can be demonstrated by the antidepressant-like effects of melatonin. Further studies that investigate the associations between melatonin, immune markers, and alterations in the brain structure and function in patients with depression could identify potential MDD biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunsoo Won
- Department of Psychiatry, Chaum, Seoul 06062, Korea;
- Department of Psychiatry, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam 13496, Korea
| | - Kyoung-Sae Na
- Department of Psychiatry, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon 21565, Korea;
| | - Yong-Ku Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Ansan 15355, Korea
- Correspondence:
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Bonmati-Carrion MA, Tomas-Loba A. Melatonin and Cancer: A Polyhedral Network Where the Source Matters. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10020210. [PMID: 33535472 PMCID: PMC7912767 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10020210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is one of the most phylogenetically conserved signals in biology. Although its original function was probably related to its antioxidant capacity, this indoleamine has been “adopted” by multicellular organisms as the “darkness signal” when secreted in a circadian manner and is acutely suppressed by light at night by the pineal gland. However, melatonin is also produced by other tissues, which constitute its extrapineal sources. Apart from its undisputed chronobiotic function, melatonin exerts antioxidant, immunomodulatory, pro-apoptotic, antiproliferative, and anti-angiogenic effects, with all these properties making it a powerful antitumor agent. Indeed, this activity has been demonstrated to be mediated by interfering with various cancer hallmarks, and different epidemiological studies have also linked light at night (melatonin suppression) with a higher incidence of different types of cancer. In 2007, the World Health Organization classified night shift work as a probable carcinogen due to circadian disruption, where melatonin plays a central role. Our aim is to review, from a global perspective, the role of melatonin both from pineal and extrapineal origin, as well as their possible interplay, as an intrinsic factor in the incidence, development, and progression of cancer. Particular emphasis will be placed not only on those mechanisms related to melatonin’s antioxidant nature but also on the recently described novel roles of melatonin in microbiota and epigenetic regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Angeles Bonmati-Carrion
- Chronobiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, IMIB-Arrixaca, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
- Ciber Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable, 28090 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.-A.B.-C.); (A.T.-L.)
| | - Antonia Tomas-Loba
- Circadian Rhythm and Cancer Laboratory, Department of Physiology, IMIB-Arrixaca, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.-A.B.-C.); (A.T.-L.)
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Rezzani R, Franco C, Hardeland R, Rodella LF. Thymus-Pineal Gland Axis: Revisiting Its Role in Human Life and Ageing. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8806. [PMID: 33233845 PMCID: PMC7699871 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
For years the thymus gland (TG) and the pineal gland (PG) have been subject of increasingly in-depth studies, but only recently a link that can associate the activities of the two organs has been identified. Considering, on the one hand, the well-known immune activity of thymus and, on the other, the increasingly emerging immunological roles of circadian oscillators and the rhythmically secreted main pineal product, melatonin, many studies aimed to analyse the possible existence of an interaction between these two systems. Moreover, data confirmed that the immune system is functionally associated with the nervous and endocrine systems determining an integrated dynamic network. In addition, recent researches showed a similar, characteristic involution process both in TG and PG. Since the second half of the 20th century, evidence led to the definition of an effectively interacting thymus-pineal axis (TG-PG axis), but much has to be done. In this sense, the aim of this review is to summarize what is actually known about this topic, focusing on the impact of the TG-PG axis on human life and ageing. We would like to give more emphasis to the implications of this dynamical interaction in a possible therapeutic strategy for human health. Moreover, we focused on all the products of TG and PG in order to collect what is known about the role of peptides other than melatonin. The results available today are often unclear and not linear. These peptides have not been well studied and defined over the years. In this review we hope to awake the interest of the scientific community in them and in their future pharmacological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Rezzani
- Anatomy and Physiopathology Division, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.F.); (L.F.R.)
- Interdipartimental University Center of Research “Adaption and Regeneration of Tissues and Organs-(ARTO)”, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Caterina Franco
- Anatomy and Physiopathology Division, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.F.); (L.F.R.)
| | - Rüdiger Hardeland
- Johann Friedrich Blumenbach Institute of Zoology and Anthropology, University of Göttingen, Lower Saxony, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany;
| | - Luigi Fabrizio Rodella
- Anatomy and Physiopathology Division, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.F.); (L.F.R.)
- Interdipartimental University Center of Research “Adaption and Regeneration of Tissues and Organs-(ARTO)”, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
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Li H, Wei J, Ma F, Shan Q, Gao D, Jin Y, Sun P. Melatonin Modulates Lactation by Regulating Prolactin Secretion Via Tuberoinfundibular Dopaminergic Neurons in the Hypothalamus- Pituitary System. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2020; 21:744-750. [DOI: 10.2174/1389203721666200511093733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In-depth studies have identified many hormones important for controlling mammary growth
and maintaining lactation. One of these is melatonin, which is synthesized and secreted by the pineal
gland to regulate circadian rhythms, improve antioxidant capacity, and enhance immunity. Prolactin is
secreted by the pituitary gland and is associated with the growth and development of mammary glands
as well as initiation and maintenance of lactation. The hypothalamus-pituitary system, the most important
endocrine system in the body, regulates prolactin secretion mainly through dopamine released
from tuberoinfundibular dopaminergic neurons. This review provides a reference for further study and
describes the regulation of lactation and prolactin secretion by melatonin, primarily via the protection
and stimulation of tuberoinfundibular dopaminergic neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jingya Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Fengtao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qiang Shan
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Duo Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yuhang Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Peng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
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Rhythmic expression of the melatonergic biosynthetic pathway and its differential modulation in vitro by LPS and IL10 in bone marrow and spleen. Sci Rep 2020; 10:4799. [PMID: 32179854 PMCID: PMC7075864 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-61652-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Daily oscillation of the immune system follows the central biological clock outputs control such as melatonin produced by the pineal gland. Despite the literature showing that melatonin is also synthesized by macrophages and T lymphocytes, no information is available regarding the temporal profile of the melatonergic system of immune cells and organs in steady-state. Here, the expression of the enzymes arylalkylamine-N-acetyltransferase (AA-NAT), its phosphorylated form (P-AA-NAT) and acetylserotonin-O-methyltransferase (ASMT) were evaluated in phagocytes and T cells of the bone marrow (BM) and spleen. We also determined how the melatonergic system of these cells is modulated by LPS and the cytokine IL-10. The expression of the melatonergic enzymes showed daily rhythms in BM and spleen cells. Melatonin rhythm in the BM, but not in the spleen, follows P-AA-NAT daily variation. In BM cells, LPS and IL10 induced an increase in melatonin levels associated with the increased expressions of P-AA-NAT and ASMT. In spleen cells, LPS induced an increase in the expression of P-AA-NAT but not of melatonin. Conversely, IL10 induced a significant increase in melatonin production associated with increased AA-NAT/P-AA-NAT expressions. In conclusion, BM and spleen cells present different profiles of circadian production of local melatonin and responses to immune signals.
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T. cruzi infection among aged rats: Melatonin as a promising therapeutic molecule. Exp Gerontol 2020; 135:110922. [PMID: 32151734 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2020.110922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Although T. cruzi was identified as the cause of Chagas disease more than 100 years ago, satisfactory treatments still do not exist, especially for chronic disease. Here we review work suggesting that melatonin could have promise as a Chagas therapeutic. Melatonin has remarkably diverse actions. It is an immunomodulator, an anti-inflammatory, an antioxidant, a free radical scavenger, and has antiapoptotic and anti-aging effects. The elderly (aged 60 years or more) as a group are growing faster than any other age group. Here we discuss the major effects and the mechanisms of action of melatonin on aged T. cruzi-infected rats. Melatonin's protective effects may be consequences of its cooperative antioxidant and immunomodulatory actions. Melatonin modulates oxidative damage, inducing an antioxidant response and reversing age-related thymus regression. Its protective actions could be the result of its anti-apoptotic activity, and by its counteracting the excessive production of corticosterone. This review describes our work showing that host age plays an important and variable influence on the progression of systemic T. cruzi infection and supporting the hypothesis that melatonin should be considered as a powerful therapeutic compound with multiple activities that can improve host homeostasis during experimental T. cruzi infection.
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Cruz-Chamorro I, Álvarez-Sánchez N, Escalante-Andicoechea C, Carrillo-Vico A, Rubio A, Guerrero JM, Molinero P, Lardone PJ. Temporal expression patterns of the melatoninergic system in the human thymus of children. Mol Metab 2019; 28:83-90. [PMID: 31378599 PMCID: PMC6822200 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2019.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To obtain greater knowledge of the extra-pineal sources of melatonin during development, the amount of indolamine and the expression levels of the last two enzymes involved in its biosynthesis, Arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT) and acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase (ASMT), were analyzed in the human thymus from children from three different age groups (from days to years). The melatonin membrane and nuclear receptor expression levels also were studied. METHODS Quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR and western blot were performed to investigate the receptor and enzyme expression levels. The results were examined and correlated with the ages of the thymuses. RESULTS We found high levels of indolamine in the thymuses of newborns (younger than 1 month), which decreased during development; thymuses from the months (from 2 to 11 months) and years (from 1 to 12 years) groups showed lower levels. A similar decline was also observed in the mRNA of the AANAT enzyme and the expression levels of melatonin receptors. However, ASMT expression was exactly the opposite, with low levels in the newborn group and higher levels in the years group. Our results show that the thymic synthesis of melatonin occurs very early in childhood. Additionally, this is the first report that is focused on melatonin receptors expression in the human thymus. CONCLUSION Considering the limited melatonin synthesis performed by the newborn pineal gland, we suggest that the high levels of melatonin found in human thymus in this experimental group arise from synthesis in the tissue itself, which could be contributing to the immune efficiency at the thymic level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Cruz-Chamorro
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Manuel Siurot S/N, 41013, Seville, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica Médica y Biología Molecular e Inmunología, Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Sanchez Pizjuan S/N, 41009, Seville, Spain
| | - Nuria Álvarez-Sánchez
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Manuel Siurot S/N, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | - Cristina Escalante-Andicoechea
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Manuel Siurot S/N, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | - Antonio Carrillo-Vico
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Manuel Siurot S/N, 41013, Seville, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica Médica y Biología Molecular e Inmunología, Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Sanchez Pizjuan S/N, 41009, Seville, Spain
| | - Amalia Rubio
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Manuel Siurot S/N, 41013, Seville, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica Médica y Biología Molecular e Inmunología, Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Sanchez Pizjuan S/N, 41009, Seville, Spain
| | - Juan Miguel Guerrero
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Manuel Siurot S/N, 41013, Seville, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica Médica y Biología Molecular e Inmunología, Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Sanchez Pizjuan S/N, 41009, Seville, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Avda. Manuel Siurot S/N, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | - Patrocinio Molinero
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Manuel Siurot S/N, 41013, Seville, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica Médica y Biología Molecular e Inmunología, Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Sanchez Pizjuan S/N, 41009, Seville, Spain
| | - Patricia J Lardone
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Manuel Siurot S/N, 41013, Seville, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica Médica y Biología Molecular e Inmunología, Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Sanchez Pizjuan S/N, 41009, Seville, Spain.
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Odinokov D, Hamblin MR. Aging of lymphoid organs: Can photobiomodulation reverse age-associated thymic involution via stimulation of extrapineal melatonin synthesis and bone marrow stem cells? JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2018; 11:e201700282. [PMID: 29227581 PMCID: PMC5995606 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.201700282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Thymic atrophy and the subsequent reduction in T-cell production are the most noticeable age-related changes affecting lymphoid organs in the immune system. In fact, thymic involution has been described as "programmed aging." New therapeutic approaches, such as photobiomodulation (PBM), may reduce or reverse these changes. PBM (also known as low-level laser therapy) involves the delivery of non-thermal levels of red or near-infrared light that are absorbed by mitochondrial chromophores, in order to prevent tissue death and stimulate healing and regeneration. PBM may reverse or prevent thymic involution due to its ability to induce extrapineal melatonin biosynthesis via cyclic adenosine monophosphate (AMP) or NF-kB activation, or alternatively by stimulating bone marrow stem cells that can regenerate the thymus. This perspective puts forward a hypothesis that PBM can alter thymic involution, improve immune functioning in aged people and even extend lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Odinokov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Michael R Hamblin
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
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Choi SI, Lee E, Akuzum B, Jeong JB, Maeng YS, Kim TI, Kim EK. Melatonin reduces endoplasmic reticulum stress and corneal dystrophy-associated TGFBIp through activation of endoplasmic reticulum-associated protein degradation. J Pineal Res 2017; 63. [PMID: 28580641 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is emerging as a factor for the pathogenesis of granular corneal dystrophy type 2 (GCD2). This study was designed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the protective effects of melatonin on ER stress in GCD2. Our results showed that GCD2 corneal fibroblasts were more susceptible to ER stress-induced death than were wild-type cells. Melatonin significantly inhibited GCD2 corneal cell death, caspase-3 activation, and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 cleavage caused by the ER stress inducer, tunicamycin. Under ER stress, melatonin significantly suppressed the induction of immunoglobulin heavy-chain-binding protein (BiP) and activation of inositol-requiring enzyme 1α (IRE1α), and their downstream target, alternative splicing of X-box binding protein 1(XBP1). Notably, the reduction in BiP and IRE1α by melatonin was suppressed by the ubiquitin-proteasome inhibitor, MG132, but not by the autophagy inhibitor, bafilomycin A1, indicating involvement of the ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD) system. Melatonin treatment reduced the levels of transforming growth factor-β-induced protein (TGFBIp) significantly, and this reduction was suppressed by MG132. We also found reduced mRNA expression of the ERAD system components HRD1 and SEL1L, and a reduced level of SEL1L protein in GCD2 cells. Interestingly, melatonin treatments enhanced SEL1L levels and suppressed the inhibition of SEL1L N-glycosylation caused by tunicamycin. In conclusion, this study provides new insights into the mechanisms by which melatonin confers its protective actions during ER stress. The results also indicate that melatonin might have potential as a therapeutic agent for ER stress-related diseases including GCD2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Il Choi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eunhee Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Begum Akuzum
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jang Bin Jeong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong-Sun Maeng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae-Im Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Vision Research, Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eung Kweon Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Vision Research, Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Csaba G. The Role of Brain –Pineal –Thymus System in the Determination of Lifespan: The Autoimmune Aging Theory. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.3233/nib-160118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- G. Csaba
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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Ren W, Liu G, Chen S, Yin J, Wang J, Tan B, Wu G, Bazer FW, Peng Y, Li T, Reiter RJ, Yin Y. Melatonin signaling in T cells: Functions and applications. J Pineal Res 2017; 62. [PMID: 28152213 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2016] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin affects a variety of physiological processes including circadian rhythms, cellular redox status, and immune function. Importantly, melatonin significantly influences T-cell-mediated immune responses, which are crucial to protect mammals against cancers and infections, but are associated with pathogenesis of many autoimmune diseases. This review focuses on our current understanding of the significance of melatonin in T-cell biology and the beneficial effects of melatonin in T-cell response-based diseases. In addition to expressing both membrane and nuclear receptors for melatonin, T cells have the four enzymes required for the synthesis of melatonin and produce high levels of melatonin. Meanwhile, melatonin is highly effective in modulating T-cell activation and differentiation, especially for Th17 and Treg cells, and also memory T cells. Mechanistically, the influence of melatonin in T-cell biology is associated with membrane and nuclear receptors as well as receptor-independent pathways, for example, via calcineurin. Several cell signaling pathways, including ERK1/2-C/EBPα, are involved in the regulatory roles of melatonin in T-cell biology. Through modulation in T-cell responses, melatonin exerts beneficial effects in various inflammatory diseases, such as type 1 diabetes, systemic lupus erythematosus, and multiple sclerosis. These findings highlight the importance of melatonin signaling in T-cell fate determination, and T cell-based immune pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenkai Ren
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Health and Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecology, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Health and Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecology, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Shuai Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Health and Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecology, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jie Yin
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Health and Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecology, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Health and Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecology, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Bie Tan
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Health and Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecology, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Guoyao Wu
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Yuanyi Peng
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tiejun Li
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Health and Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecology, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Co-Innovation Center of Animal Production Safety, CICAPS, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Russel J Reiter
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Yulong Yin
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Health and Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecology, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
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Chen F, Reheman A, Cao J, Wang Z, Dong Y, Zhang Y, Chen Y. Effect of melatonin on monochromatic light-induced T-lymphocyte proliferation in the thymus of chickens. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY B-BIOLOGY 2016; 161:9-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2016.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Revised: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Abstract
The thymus develops from an endocrine area of the foregut, and retains the ancient potencies of this region. However, later it is populated by bone marrow originated lymphatic elements and forms a combined organ, which is a central part of the immune system as well as an influential element of the endocrine orchestra. Thymus produces self-hormones (thymulin, thymosin, thymopentin, and thymus humoral factor), which are participating in the regulation of immune cell transformation and selection, and also synthesizes hormones similar to that of the other endocrine glands such as melatonin, neuropeptides, and insulin, which are transported by the immune cells to the sites of requests (packed transport). Thymic (epithelial and immune) cells also have receptors for hormones which regulate them. This combined organ, which is continuously changing from birth to senescence seems to be a pacemaker of life. This function is basically regulated by the selection of self-responsive thymocytes as their complete destruction helps the development (up to puberty) and their gradual release in case of weakened control (after puberty) causes the erosion of cells and intercellular material, named aging. This means that during aging, self-destructive and non-protective immune activities are manifested under the guidance of the involuting thymus, causing the continuous irritation of cells and organs. Possibly the pineal body is the main regulator of the pacemaker, the neonatal removal of which results in atrophy of thymus and wasting disease and its later corrosion causes the insufficiency of thymus. The co-involution of pineal and thymus could determine the aging and the time of death without external intervention; however, external factors can negatively influence both of them.
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Affiliation(s)
- György Csaba
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University , Budapest, Hungary
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17
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Foster JR. Melatonin in Critically Ill Children. J Pediatr Intensive Care 2016; 5:172-181. [PMID: 31110902 DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1583283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin, while best known for its chronobiologic functions, has multiple effects that may be relevant in critical illness. It has been used for circadian rhythm maintenance, analgesia, and sedation, and has antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and antiexcitatory effects. This review examines melatonin physiology in health, the current state of knowledge regarding endogenous melatonin production in pediatric critical illness, and the potential uses of exogenous melatonin in this population, including relevant information from basic sciences and other fields of medicine. Pineal melatonin production and secretion appears to be altered in critical illness, though understanding in pediatric critical illness is in early stages, with only 102 children reported in the current literature. Exogenous melatonin may be used for circadian rhythm disturbances and, within the critically ill population, holds promise for diseases involving oxidant stress. There are no studies of exogenous melatonin administration to critically ill children beyond the neonatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Ruth Foster
- Department of Paediatrics, IWK Health Centre, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, Western University, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
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18
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Slawik H, Stoffel M, Riedl L, Veselý Z, Behr M, Lehmberg J, Pohl C, Meyer B, Wiegand M, Krieg SM. Prospective Study on Salivary Evening Melatonin and Sleep before and after Pinealectomy in Humans. J Biol Rhythms 2015; 31:82-93. [PMID: 26647380 DOI: 10.1177/0748730415616678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin is secreted systemically from the pineal gland maximally at night but is also produced locally in many tissues. Its chronobiological function is mainly exerted by pineal melatonin. It is a feedback regulator of the main circadian pacemaker in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nuclei and of many peripheral oscillators. Although exogenous melatonin is approved for circadian rhythm sleep disorders and old-age insomnia, research on endogenous melatonin in humans is hindered by the great interindividual variability of its amount and circadian rhythm. Single case studies on pinealectomized patients report on disrupted but also hypersomnic sleep. This is the first systematic prospective report on sleep with respect to pinealectomy due to pinealocytoma World Health Organization grade I without chemo- or radiotherapy. Before and after pinealectomy, 8 patients completed questionnaires on sleep quality and circadian rhythm (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire), 2 nights of polysomnography, salivary evening melatonin profiles, and qualitative assessment of 2 weeks of actigraphy and sleep logs. Six patients were assessed retrospectively up to 4 years after pinealectomy. Before pinealectomy, all but 1 patient showed an evening melatonin rise typical for indifferent chronotypes. After pinealectomy, evening saliva melatonin was markedly diminished, mostly below the detection limit of the assay (0.09 pg/mL). No systematic change in subjective sleep quality or standard measures of polysomnography was found. Mean pre- and postoperative sleep efficiency was 94% and 95%, and mean sleep-onset latency was 21 and 17 min, respectively. Sleep-wake rhythm during normal daily life did not change. Retrospective patients had a reduced sleep efficiency (90%) and more stage changes, although this was not significantly different from prospective patients. In conclusion, melatonin does seem to have a modulatory, not a regulatory, effect on standard measures of sleep. Study output is limited by small sample size and because only evening melatonin profiles were assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Slawik
- Center of Sleep Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Germany Universitäre Psychiatrische Kliniken, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael Stoffel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Germany Helios Klinikum, Krefeld, Germany
| | - Lina Riedl
- Center of Sleep Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Germany
| | - Zdenko Veselý
- Center of Sleep Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Germany Deceased
| | - Michael Behr
- Department of Neurosurgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Germany
| | - Jens Lehmberg
- Department of Neurosurgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Germany
| | - Corina Pohl
- Center of Sleep Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Germany
| | - Bernhard Meyer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Germany
| | - Michael Wiegand
- Center of Sleep Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Germany
| | - Sandro M Krieg
- Department of Neurosurgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Germany
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Acuña-Castroviejo D, Escames G, Venegas C, Díaz-Casado ME, Lima-Cabello E, López LC, Rosales-Corral S, Tan DX, Reiter RJ. Extrapineal melatonin: sources, regulation, and potential functions. Cell Mol Life Sci 2014; 71:2997-3025. [PMID: 24554058 PMCID: PMC11113552 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-014-1579-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 670] [Impact Index Per Article: 67.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Revised: 01/26/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous melatonin is synthesized from tryptophan via 5-hydroxytryptamine. It is considered an indoleamine from a biochemical point of view because the melatonin molecule contains a substituted indolic ring with an amino group. The circadian production of melatonin by the pineal gland explains its chronobiotic influence on organismal activity, including the endocrine and non-endocrine rhythms. Other functions of melatonin, including its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, its genomic effects, and its capacity to modulate mitochondrial homeostasis, are linked to the redox status of cells and tissues. With the aid of specific melatonin antibodies, the presence of melatonin has been detected in multiple extrapineal tissues including the brain, retina, lens, cochlea, Harderian gland, airway epithelium, skin, gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidney, thyroid, pancreas, thymus, spleen, immune system cells, carotid body, reproductive tract, and endothelial cells. In most of these tissues, the melatonin-synthesizing enzymes have been identified. Melatonin is present in essentially all biological fluids including cerebrospinal fluid, saliva, bile, synovial fluid, amniotic fluid, and breast milk. In several of these fluids, melatonin concentrations exceed those in the blood. The importance of the continual availability of melatonin at the cellular level is important for its physiological regulation of cell homeostasis, and may be relevant to its therapeutic applications. Because of this, it is essential to compile information related to its peripheral production and regulation of this ubiquitously acting indoleamine. Thus, this review emphasizes the presence of melatonin in extrapineal organs, tissues, and fluids of mammals including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darío Acuña-Castroviejo
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Granada, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, Armilla, 18100, Granada, Spain,
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20
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SHE FEI, WANG WENBO, WANG YAN, TANG PEIFU, WEI JUNQIANG, CHEN HUA, ZHANG BOXUN. Melatonin protects MG63 osteoblast-like cells from hydrogen peroxide-induced cytotoxicity by maintaining mitochondrial function. Mol Med Rep 2013; 9:493-8. [DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2013.1832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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21
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Melatonin: buffering the immune system. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:8638-83. [PMID: 23609496 PMCID: PMC3645767 DOI: 10.3390/ijms14048638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 419] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2013] [Revised: 04/06/2013] [Accepted: 04/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin modulates a wide range of physiological functions with pleiotropic effects on the immune system. Despite the large number of reports implicating melatonin as an immunomodulatory compound, it still remains unclear how melatonin regulates immunity. While some authors argue that melatonin is an immunostimulant, many studies have also described anti-inflammatory properties. The data reviewed in this paper support the idea of melatonin as an immune buffer, acting as a stimulant under basal or immunosuppressive conditions or as an anti-inflammatory compound in the presence of exacerbated immune responses, such as acute inflammation. The clinical relevance of the multiple functions of melatonin under different immune conditions, such as infection, autoimmunity, vaccination and immunosenescence, is also reviewed.
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22
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Venegas C, García JA, Escames G, Ortiz F, López A, Doerrier C, García-Corzo L, López LC, Reiter RJ, Acuña-Castroviejo D. Extrapineal melatonin: analysis of its subcellular distribution and daily fluctuations. J Pineal Res 2012; 52:217-27. [PMID: 21884551 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2011.00931.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 429] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
We studied the subcellular levels of melatonin in cerebral cortex and liver of rats under several conditions. The results show that melatonin levels in the cell membrane, cytosol, nucleus, and mitochondrion vary over a 24-hr cycle, although these variations do not exhibit circadian rhythms. The cell membrane has the highest concentration of melatonin followed by mitochondria, nucleus, and cytosol. Pinealectomy significantly increased the content of melatonin in all subcellular compartments, whereas luzindole treatment had little effect on melatonin levels. Administration of 10 mg/kg bw melatonin to sham-pinealectomized, pinealectomized, or continuous light-exposed rats increased the content of melatonin in all subcellular compartments. Melatonin in doses ranging from 40 to 200 mg/kg bw increased in a dose-dependent manner the accumulation of melatonin on cell membrane and cytosol, although the accumulations were 10 times greater in the former than in the latter. Melatonin levels in the nucleus and mitochondria reached saturation with a dose of 40 mg/kg bw; higher doses of injected melatonin did not further cause additional accumulation of melatonin in these organelles. The results suggest some control of extrapineal accumulation or extrapineal production of melatonin and support the existence of regulatory mechanisms in cellular organelles, which prevent the intracellular equilibration of the indolamine. Seemingly, different concentrations of melatonin can be maintained in different subcellular compartments. The data also seem to support a requirement of high doses of melatonin to obtain therapeutic effects. Together, these results add information that assists in explaining the physiology and pharmacology of melatonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Venegas
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
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Srinivasan V, Spence DW, Pandi-Perumal SR, Brown GM, Cardinali DP. Melatonin in mitochondrial dysfunction and related disorders. Int J Alzheimers Dis 2011; 2011:326320. [PMID: 21629741 PMCID: PMC3100547 DOI: 10.4061/2011/326320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2010] [Accepted: 03/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is considered one of the major causative factors in the aging process, ischemia/reperfusion (I/R), septic shock, and neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Huntington's disease (HD). Increased free radical generation, enhanced mitochondrial inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase activity, enhanced NO production, decreased respiratory complex activity, impaired electron transport system, and opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore all have been suggested as factors responsible for impaired mitochondrial function. Melatonin, the major hormone of the pineal gland, also acts as an antioxidant and as a regulator of mitochondrial bioenergetic function. Both in vitro and in vivo, melatonin was effective for preventing oxidative stress/nitrosative stress-induced mitochondrial dysfunction seen in experimental models of PD, AD, and HD. In addition, melatonin is known to retard aging and to inhibit the lethal effects of septic shock or I/R lesions by maintaining respiratory complex activities, electron transport chain, and ATP production in mitochondria. Melatonin is selectively taken up by mitochondrial membranes, a function not shared by other antioxidants. Melatonin has thus emerged as a major potential therapeutic tool for treating neurodegenerative disorders such as PD or AD, and for preventing the lethal effects of septic shock or I/R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkatramanujam Srinivasan
- Sri Sathya Sai Medical, Educational and Research Foundation, Prashanthi Nilayam 40, Kovai Thirunagar Coimbatore 641014, India
| | | | | | - Gregory M. Brown
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada M5T 1R8
| | - Daniel P. Cardinali
- Departamento de Docencia e Investigación, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Avenida Alicia Moreau de Justo 1500, 4 Piso, 1107 Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 1121 Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Das A, McDowell M, Pava MJ, Smith JA, Reiter RJ, Woodward JJ, Varma AK, Ray SK, Banik NL. The inhibition of apoptosis by melatonin in VSC4.1 motoneurons exposed to oxidative stress, glutamate excitotoxicity, or TNF-alpha toxicity involves membrane melatonin receptors. J Pineal Res 2010; 48:157-69. [PMID: 20082663 PMCID: PMC2862889 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2009.00739.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Loss of motoneurons may underlie some of the deficits in motor function associated with the central nervous system (CNS) injuries and diseases. We tested whether melatonin, a potent antioxidant and free radical scavenger, would prevent motoneuron apoptosis following exposure to toxins and whether this neuroprotection is mediated by melatonin receptors. Exposure of VSC4.1 motoneurons to either 50 microm H(2)O(2), 25 microm glutamate (LGA), or 50 ng/mL tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) for 24 h caused significant increases in apoptosis, as determined by Wright staining and ApopTag assay. Analyses of mRNA and proteins showed increased expression and activities of stress kinases and cysteine proteases and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential during apoptosis. These insults also caused increases in intracellular free [Ca(2+)] and activities of calpain and caspases. Cells exposed to stress stimuli for 15 min were then treated with 200 nm melatonin. Post-treatment of cells with melatonin attenuated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and phosphorylation of p38, MAPK, and JNK1, prevented cell death, and maintained whole-cell membrane potential, indicating functional neuroprotection. Melatonin receptors (MT1 and MT2) were upregulated following treatment with melatonin. To confirm the involvement of MT1 and MT2 in providing neuroprotection, cells were post-treated (20 min) with 10 microm luzindole (melatonin receptor antagonist). Luzindole significantly attenuated melatonin-induced neuroprotection, suggesting that melatonin worked, at least in part, via its receptors to prevent VSC4.1 motoneuron apoptosis. Results suggest that neuroprotection rendered by melatonin to motoneurons is receptor mediated and melatonin may be an effective neuroprotective agent to attenuate motoneuron death in CNS injuries and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arabinda Das
- Department of Neurosciences (Division of Neurology), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Misty McDowell
- Department of Neurosciences (Division of Neurology), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Matthew J Pava
- Department of Neurosciences (Division of Neurology), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | | | - Russel J. Reiter
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, University of Texas, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - John J. Woodward
- Department of Neurosciences (Division of Neurology), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Abhay K. Varma
- Department of Neurosciences (Division of Neurology), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Swapan K. Ray
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29209, USA
| | - Naren L. Banik
- Department of Neurosciences (Division of Neurology), Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
- Correspondence to: Naren L. Banik, Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, Charleston, SC 29425. Phone: (843) 792-8570; Fax: (843) 792-8626; Naren L. Banik ()
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25
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Age-related changes in melatonin synthesis in rat extrapineal tissues. Exp Gerontol 2009; 44:328-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2009.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2008] [Revised: 12/19/2008] [Accepted: 02/11/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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26
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Melatonin and breast cancer: cellular mechanisms, clinical studies and future perspectives. Expert Rev Mol Med 2009; 11:e5. [PMID: 19193248 DOI: 10.1017/s1462399409000982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have suggested that the pineal hormone melatonin may protect against breast cancer, and the mechanisms underlying its actions are becoming clearer. Melatonin works through receptors and distinct second messenger pathways to reduce cellular proliferation and to induce cellular differentiation. In addition, independently of receptors melatonin can modulate oestrogen-dependent pathways and reduce free-radical formation, thus preventing mutation and cellular toxicity. The fact that melatonin works through a myriad of signalling cascades that are protective to cells makes this hormone a good candidate for use in the clinic for the prevention and/or treatment of cancer. This review summarises cellular mechanisms governing the action of melatonin and then considers the potential use of melatonin in breast cancer prevention and treatment, with an emphasis on improving clinical outcomes.
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Jimenez-Caliani AJ, Jimenez-Jorge S, Molinero P, Rubio A, Guerrero JM, Osuna C. Treatment with testosterone or estradiol in melatonin treated females and males MRL/MpJ-Faslpr mice induces negative effects in developing systemic lupus erythematosus. J Pineal Res 2008; 45:204-11. [PMID: 18507713 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2008.00578.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
MRL/MpJ-Fas(lpr) mice is widely accepted as a valuable model of systemic lupus erythematosus. As described in a previous work, the incidence of lupus in this strain is determined by sex hormones, i.e., estrogens and androgens. Moreover, we reported that the immunomodulatory action of melatonin in these mice was gender-dependent probably through modulation and inhibition of sex hormones. Herein, we performed an experiment using hormone therapy, by treating female MRL-lpr mice with testosterone and males with estradiol and with melatonin. A decrease in total serum immunoglobulin (Ig)G and IgM immunoglobulin titers, anti-double-stranded DNA, and anti-CII autoantibodies in female mice treated with both melatonin and testosterone was revealed, along with an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, interferon-gamma, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and IL-1beta), nitrite/nitrate and a decrease in anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10). Melatonin and estradiol treatment exhibited a similar effect in male mice. Autoantibody titer elevation and pro-inflammatory versus anti-inflammatory cytokine prevalence degraded all immunological parameters. Similar results were obtained when spleen and lymph node lymphocytes were cultured. Again, melatonin and testosterone treatment stimulated pro-inflammatory and reduced anti-inflammatory cytokines produced by lymphocytes in females. The effect was similar in males treated with melatonin and estradiol. In summary, we observed that although melatonin alone prevents lupus development in females, adding testosterone, increased pro-inflammatory cytokine pattern. In contrary, estradiol-treated males did not show any decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines but showed an increase in regard to melatonin controls. These findings confirm that melatonin action in MRL/MpJ-Fas(lpr) mice could be gender-dependent through modulation of sex hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio J Jimenez-Caliani
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Seville School of Medicine and Virgin Macarena University Hospital, Seville, Spain
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28
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Torres-Farfan C, Valenzuela FJ, Mondaca M, Valenzuela GJ, Krause B, Herrera EA, Riquelme R, Llanos AJ, Seron-Ferre M. Evidence of a role for melatonin in fetal sheep physiology: direct actions of melatonin on fetal cerebral artery, brown adipose tissue and adrenal gland. J Physiol 2008; 586:4017-27. [PMID: 18599539 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2008.154351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the fetal pineal gland does not secrete melatonin, the fetus is exposed to melatonin of maternal origin. In the non-human primate fetus, melatonin acts as a trophic hormone for the adrenal gland, stimulating growth while restraining cortisol production. This latter physiological activity led us to hypothesize that melatonin may influence some fetal functions critical for neonatal adaptation to extrauterine life. To test this hypothesis we explored (i) the presence of G-protein-coupled melatonin binding sites and (ii) the direct modulatory effects of melatonin on noradrenaline (norepinephrine)-induced middle cerebral artery (MCA) contraction, brown adipose tissue (BAT) lypolysis and ACTH-induced adrenal cortisol production in fetal sheep. We found that melatonin directly inhibits the response to noradrenaline in the MCA and BAT, and also inhibits the response to ACTH in the adrenal gland. Melatonin inhibition was reversed by the melatonin antagonist luzindole only in the fetal adrenal. MCA, BAT and adrenal tissue displayed specific high-affinity melatonin binding sites coupled to G-protein (K(d) values: MCA 64 +/- 1 pm, BAT 98.44 +/- 2.12 pm and adrenal 4.123 +/- 3.22 pm). Melatonin binding was displaced by luzindole only in the adrenal gland, supporting the idea that action in the MCA and BAT is mediated by different melatonin receptors. These direct inhibitory responses to melatonin support a role for melatonin in fetal physiology, which we propose prevents major contraction of cerebral vessels, restrains cortisol release and restricts BAT lypolysis during fetal life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Torres-Farfan
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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29
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Bondi CD, McKeon RM, Bennett JM, Ignatius PF, Brydon L, Jockers R, Melan MA, Witt-Enderby PA. MT1 melatonin receptor internalization underlies melatonin-induced morphologic changes in Chinese hamster ovary cells and these processes are dependent on Gi proteins, MEK 1/2 and microtubule modulation. J Pineal Res 2008; 44:288-98. [PMID: 18339124 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2007.00525.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin induces cellular differentiation in numerous cell types. Data show that multiple mechanisms are involved in these processes that are cell-type specific and may be receptor dependent or independent. The focus of this study was to specifically assess the role of human MT1 melatonin receptors in cellular differentiation using an MT1-Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) model; one that reproducibly produces measurable morphologic changes in response to melatonin. Using multiple approaches, we show that melatonin induces MT1-CHO cells to hyperelongate through a MEK 1/2, and ERK 1/2-dependent mechanism that is dependent upon MT1 receptor internalization, Gi protein activation, and clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Using immunoprecipitation analysis, we show that MT1 receptors form complexes with Gi(alpha) 2,3, Gq(alpha), beta-arrestin-2, MEK 1/2, and ERK 1/2 in the presence of melatonin. We also show that MEK and ERK activity that is induced by melatonin is dependent on Gi protein activation, clathrin-mediated endocytosis and is modulated by microtubules. We conclude from these studies that melatonin-induced internalization of human MT1 melatonin receptors in CHO cells is responsible for activating both MEK 1/2 and ERK 1/2 to drive these morphologic changes. These events, as mediated by melatonin, require Gi protein activation and endocytosis mediated through clathrin, to form MT1 receptor complexes with beta-arrestin-2/MEK 1/2 and ERK 1/2. The MT1-CHO model is invaluable to mapping out signaling cascades as mediated through MT1 receptors especially because it separates out MEK/ERK 1/2 activation by MT1 receptors from that of receptor tyrosine kinases.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Dominic Bondi
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, USA
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30
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Jimenez-Jorge S, Guerrero JM, Jimenez-Caliani AJ, Naranjo MC, Lardone PJ, Carrillo-Vico A, Osuna C, Molinero P. Evidence for melatonin synthesis in the rat brain during development. J Pineal Res 2007; 42:240-6. [PMID: 17349021 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2006.00411.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin production is not restricted to the pineal gland. Several extrapineal sources of this indole such as retina, Harderian gland, and immune system are well documented. Melatonin of pineal origin is not present in the rat at early stages of development. To assess the potential capacity of local melatonin synthesis by the immature brain and to gain insight into the relationship between melatonin production by the brain (without the pineal gland) and pineal gland during rat development, the melatonin content as well as the expression and activity of the melatonin-synthesizing enzymes, N-acetyltransferase (NAT) and hydroxyindole-O-methyltransferase (HIOMT), were studied at fetal and postnatal stages. Moreover, melatonin-membrane receptor (MT(1)) expression was also analyzed. Both, the expression and activity of NAT and HIOMT were found in the brain with significant day/night differences in enzymes activities. Additionally, melatonin content was detected in all stages showing day/night differences depending on the stage of development. The brain nocturnal melatonin content was higher than diurnal content on postnatal day 16 and in adult rats which is in accordance with the pineal melatonin synthesis. To investigate the origin of this brain melatonin, pinealectomized rats were used and we found that the developing brain produced its own melatonin. Also, MT(1) expression was detected in brain during development. These results demonstrate that, when the pineal is not yet producing melatonin, there is melatonin synthesis by the brain that could be used as protection from free radical damage and/or could exert some actions through MT(1) receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Jimenez-Jorge
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Seville School of Medicine and Virgen del Rocio Hospital, Seville, Spain
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31
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Tan DX, Manchester LC, Terron MP, Flores LJ, Reiter RJ. One molecule, many derivatives: a never-ending interaction of melatonin with reactive oxygen and nitrogen species? J Pineal Res 2007; 42:28-42. [PMID: 17198536 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2006.00407.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1103] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin is a highly conserved molecule. Its presence can be traced back to ancient photosynthetic prokaryotes. A primitive and primary function of melatonin is that it acts as a receptor-independent free radical scavenger and a broad-spectrum antioxidant. The receptor-dependent functions of melatonin were subsequently acquired during evolution. In the current review, we focus on melatonin metabolism which includes the synthetic rate-limiting enzymes, synthetic sites, potential regulatory mechanisms, bioavailability in humans, mechanisms of breakdown and functions of its metabolites. Recent evidence indicates that the original melatonin metabolite may be N1-acetyl-N2-formyl-5-methoxykynuramine (AFMK) rather than its commonly measured urinary excretory product 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate. Numerous pathways for AFMK formation have been identified both in vitro and in vivo. These include enzymatic and pseudo-enzymatic pathways, interactions with reactive oxygen species (ROS)/reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and with ultraviolet irradiation. AFMK is present in mammals including humans, and is the only detectable melatonin metabolite in unicellular organisms and metazoans. 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate has not been observed in these low evolutionary-ranked organisms. This implies that AFMK evolved earlier in evolution than 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate as a melatonin metabolite. Via the AFMK pathway, a single melatonin molecule is reported to scavenge up to 10 ROS/RNS. That the free radical scavenging capacity of melatonin extends to its secondary, tertiary and quaternary metabolites is now documented. It appears that melatonin's interaction with ROS/RNS is a prolonged process that involves many of its derivatives. The process by which melatonin and its metabolites successively scavenge ROS/RNS is referred as the free radical scavenging cascade. This cascade reaction is a novel property of melatonin and explains how it differs from other conventional antioxidants. This cascade reaction makes melatonin highly effective, even at low concentrations, in protecting organisms from oxidative stress. In accordance with its protective function, substantial amounts of melatonin are found in tissues and organs which are frequently exposed to the hostile environmental insults such as the gut and skin or organs which have high oxygen consumption such as the brain. In addition, melatonin production may be upregulated by low intensity stressors such as dietary restriction in rats and exercise in humans. Intensive oxidative stress results in a rapid drop of circulating melatonin levels. This melatonin decline is not related to its reduced synthesis but to its rapid consumption, i.e. circulating melatonin is rapidly metabolized by interaction with ROS/RNS induced by stress. Rapid melatonin consumption during elevated stress may serve as a protective mechanism of organisms in which melatonin is used as a first-line defensive molecule against oxidative damage. The oxidative status of organisms modifies melatonin metabolism. It has been reported that the higher the oxidative state, the more AFMK is produced. The ratio of AFMK and another melatonin metabolite, cyclic 3-hydroxymelatonin, may serve as an indicator of the level of oxidative stress in organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dun-Xian Tan
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, The University of Texas, Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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32
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Abstract
Pineal melatonin regulates circadian rhythms and influences sleep. Melatonin also has protective actions against tissue damage from free-radicals and other toxins. Evidence is presented that this indoleamine is involved in pre- and postnatal brain (and ocular) development and intrauterine growth. In the absence of maternal melatonin, short gestation infants have a prolonged period of melatonin deficiency. Melatonin supplementation, which has a benign safety profile, may help reduce complications in the neonatal period that are associated with short gestation. We believe that this treatment might result in a wide range of health benefits, improved quality of life and reduced healthcare costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- James E Jan
- Melatonin Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada, and Child Health, Chelsea and Westminster Campus, Imperial College, London, UK.
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33
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Jimenez-Caliani AJ, Jimenez-Jorge S, Molinero P, Fernandez-Santos JM, Martin-Lacave I, Rubio A, Guerrero JM, Osuna C. Sex-dependent effect of melatonin on systemic erythematosus lupus developed in Mrl/Mpj-Faslpr mice: it ameliorates the disease course in females, whereas it exacerbates it in males. Endocrinology 2006; 147:1717-24. [PMID: 16373423 DOI: 10.1210/en.2005-0648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In this study, the effect of chronic administration of melatonin on MRL/MpJ-Fas(lpr) mice has been studied. These mice spontaneously develop an autoimmune disease that has many features resembling human systemic lupus erythematosus. In fact, histological studies showed that all female mice and most male mice exhibited glomerular abnormalities, arteritic lesions, and cellular interstitial inflammatory infiltrate ranging from mild to severe patterns. Treatment with melatonin improved the histological pattern in females and worsened it in males. Moreover, female mice treated with melatonin showed a diminution of titers of total serum IgG, IgM, and anti-double-stranded DNA and anti-CII autoantibodies; a decrease in proinflammatory cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, interferon-gamma, TNF-alpha, and IL-1beta), an increase in antiinflammatory cytokines (IL-10), and a decrease in nitrite/nitrate. In male mice, treatment with melatonin exhibited the opposite effect, worsening all the immunological parameters with an elevation of titers of autoantibodies and a prevalence of proinflammatory vs. antiinflammatory cytokines. Similar results were obtained when lymphocytes from spleen and lymph nodes were cultured. Again, melatonin treatment in females decreased proinflammatory cytokines and increased antiinflammatory cytokines produced by lymphocytes; in males, the effect was the opposite. These findings suggest that melatonin action in MRL/MpJ-Fas(lpr) mice is gender dependent, probably through modulation and inhibition of sex hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio J Jimenez-Caliani
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Seville School of Medicine, Spain
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Kaur C, Sivakumar V, Ling EA. Expression of tranferrin receptors in the pineal gland of postnatal and adult rats and its alteration in hypoxia and melatonin treatment. Glia 2006; 55:263-73. [PMID: 17091493 DOI: 10.1002/glia.20452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Transferrin receptors (Tfrc) are membrane bound glycoproteins which function to mediate cellular uptake of iron from transferrin. We examined expression of Tfrc in the pineal gland of rats of different ages from 1 day to 12 weeks. The mRNA and protein expression of Tfrc increased up to 6 weeks of age and decreased in 12 week rats. Tfrc immunoreactivity was observed on pinealocytes and macrophages/microglia. By immunoelectron microscopy, the immunoreaction in pinealocytes was observed in the cytosol, on mitochondria and plasma membrane whereas in macrophages/microglia it was localized on the plasma membrane in 1-day to 2-week old rats. In older rats, the immunoreaction product in pinealocytes was associated with the plasma membrane and mitochondria only. Iron localization was observed in pinealocytes as well as macrophages/microglia. It is suggested that Tfrc are required for uptake of iron for cell proliferation and maturation in the pineal gland upto 6 weeks of age. The significance of Tfrc expression on mitochondria is speculative. They may be involved in iron transport to the mitochondria or for regulation of the secretory activity of pinealocytes. The TfrcmRNA and protein expression increased significantly in response to hypoxia in 12-week rats and this coincided with intense iron staining of the pinealocytes and macrophages/microglia. It is concluded that increased expression of Tfrc in response to hypoxia leads to excess cellular uptake of iron which may be damaging to the cells. Melatonin administration in hypoxic rats may prove to be beneficial as it reduced the Tfrc expression.
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MESH Headings
- Aging/physiology
- Animals
- Animals, Newborn
- Cell Differentiation/physiology
- Cell Membrane/metabolism
- Cell Membrane/ultrastructure
- Disease Models, Animal
- Hypoxia, Brain/drug therapy
- Hypoxia, Brain/metabolism
- Hypoxia, Brain/physiopathology
- Iron/metabolism
- Iron Metabolism Disorders/drug therapy
- Iron Metabolism Disorders/etiology
- Iron Metabolism Disorders/prevention & control
- Melatonin/metabolism
- Melatonin/pharmacology
- Melatonin/therapeutic use
- Microglia/metabolism
- Microglia/ultrastructure
- Microscopy, Immunoelectron
- Mitochondria/metabolism
- Mitochondria/ultrastructure
- Pineal Gland/drug effects
- Pineal Gland/growth & development
- Pineal Gland/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/drug effects
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptors, Transferrin/drug effects
- Receptors, Transferrin/genetics
- Receptors, Transferrin/metabolism
- Up-Regulation/drug effects
- Up-Regulation/physiology
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Affiliation(s)
- C Kaur
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597.
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