Melatonin, known as N acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine is a multitasking hormone produced by the pineal gland and other organs of the body such as bone marrow, retina, and skin. The secretion ofMelatoninis regulated by the "master biological clock" of the hypothalamus, in the human brain. It plays a vital role inCancer Treatmentthrough different applications and may have therapeutic significance.

Melatonin has a primary oncostatic property on different types of cancers, as indicated by epidemiological applications. The underlying reasons forMelatoninbeing an active cancer-fighting agent are its antioxidant property, modulation byMelatoninreceptors, stimulation of apoptosis, regulation of tumor metabolism, inhibition of metastasis, and induction of epigenetic alteration.

Melatonin as an effective supplement for cancer treatment

• Research shows thatMelatonininduces a significant decrease in tumor size and promotes immunity against carcinogenic compounds.
• TheMelatoninhormone is involved in redox processes of the cells, enhancing the augmentation of Natural Killer Cell activity and protects receptors from the toxic side effects ofChemotherapyandRadiotherapy.
• Melatonin can also be an excellent candidate for the prevention and treatment of several types of cancer, such as gastric cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, andColorectal Cancer.

Research conducted onMelatoninwith respect to preventing cancer

Studies have been conducted on Melatonin's effect on tumor growth and the side effects of cancer treatments.

• Melatonin is shown to inhibit tumor growth and cell proliferation in estrogen-responsive humanBreast Cancer.
• Studies show thatMelatonininhibits angiogenesis by decreasing the expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) receptor 2 and increasing the influence of insulin growth factor 1 and epidermal growth factor.
• Studies also show that theMelatoninhormone participates in the activation of lymphocytes and monocytes/macrophages, preventing tumor development, and fighting against potential carcinogens.
• Under various researches, it is observed thatMelatonincan also be used to treat specificChemotherapyrepercussions and reduce the side effects of cancer treatments.

• Some research also shows that Melatonin's effects on breast cancer, out of all the other types of cancer, is the most significant because of the antiproliferative effect inBreast Cancercells in vitro.
• Yet another research showed howMelatonininhibited the growth of breast tumors in mice with its administration in the preliminary stages.
• The biomodification of cancerChemotherapyandRadiotherapyby the administration ofMelatoninconfirms decreased toxicity and increased efficacy ofCancer Treatmenton patients with poor clinical status and solid metastatic tumors.
• Controlled trials that examined the relationship betweenMelatoninlevels and neoplastic activity concluded that Melatonin, through its antiproliferative, antioxidative, and immunostimulatory actions, should be considered a naturally oncostatic agent.

Have any side effects been reported from intaking Melatonin?

Melatonin is a product that is regulated by the FDA as a dietary supplement. It is only given at prescribed conditions for safety or effectiveness. It may cause drowsiness. Patients should not work on any heavy equipment until familiar with its effects. It has only been accepted as a supplementary form of treatment during cancer treatments, as the hormone is believed to be a cell-protector, involved in antioxidative processes and immunomodulation.

Conclusion:

In conclusion,Melatoninmay have multiple effects and plays a vital role in the apoptosis of cells. For research purposes, the biomodulation of cancer treatments by usingMelatonincan confirm a reduction in toxicity and an increase in the efficacy ofChemotherapyon patients.