Melatonin and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
Study Goal
The researchers aimed to summarize current knowledge on melatonin's role in regulating circadian and seasonal physiology, particularly its effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and potential clinical applications for improving reproductive functions.
Results Summary
The study highlights melatonin's crucial role in regulating circadian and seasonal physiology, influencing sexual maturation and reproductive functions via the HPG axis. It also suggests potential clinical applications for reducing oxidative stress and improving reproductive functions, such as in women's infertility.
Population
Mammals, with implications for human reproductive health.
Effective Dosage
Not specified
Duration
Not specified
Interactions
None mentioned
| Intervention | Direction | Endpoint | Population | Dosage | Impact | Claim # |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
melatonin | neutral | circadian and seasonal changes in various aspects of physiology and neuroendocrine functions | mammals | - | plays a crucial role in the regulation | #1 |
melatonin | neutral | sexual maturation and reproductive functions | mammals | - | can influence | #2 |
melatonin | decrease | oxidative stress | women infertility | - | potentials of using melatonin, as a reducer | #3 |
melatonin | increase | reproductive functions | women infertility | - | to improve | #4 |
Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxy-tryptamine), a principal product of the pineal gland, is produced mainly during the dark phase of the circadian cycle. This hormone plays a crucial role in the regulation of circadian and seasonal changes in various aspects of physiology and neuroendocrine functions. In mammals, melatonin can influence sexual maturation and reproductive functions via activation of its receptors and binding sites in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. This review summarizes current knowledge of melatonin on the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and gonads. We also review recent progress in clinical applications of melatonin or potentials of using melatonin, as a reducer of oxidative stress, to improve reproductive functions for the diseases such as women infertility.