Cancer is a complex disease that involves the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. Melatonin has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells by inducing cell death, or apoptosis, and by suppressing the formation of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow.
Several studies have suggested that melatonin may be an effective anti-cancer agent. One study published in the journal Cancer Letters found that melatonin was able to induce apoptosis in breast cancer cells, while leaving normal breast cells unaffected. Another study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that melatonin was able to inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells by suppressing the production of a protein that is essential for their growth.
Melatonin has also been shown to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. A study published in the Journal of Pineal Research found that melatonin was able to sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy, making them more susceptible to its effects. Another study published in the journal Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology found that melatonin was able to enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy in the treatment of lung cancer.
In addition to its anti-cancer properties, melatonin has also been shown to have other health benefits. It has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to protect against a range of diseases, including heart disease and Alzheimer's disease.
Despite its potential as an anti-cancer agent, more research is needed to fully understand the role of melatonin in cancer prevention and treatment. However, its safety profile and low toxicity make it an attractive option for further study.
In conclusion, melatonin shows promise as an anti-cancer agent, with the ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It also has other health benefits, making it a potentially valuable tool in the fight against cancer and other diseases. As with any supplement or treatment, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating melatonin into your routine.
Resources:
- Melatonin inhibits the growth of DMBA-induced mammary tumors by decreasing the expression of estrogen receptor and basic fibroblast growth factor
- Melatonin inhibits androgen receptor splice variant-7 (AR-V7)-induced nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) activation and NF-κB activator-induced AR-V7 expression in prostate cancer cells: Potential implications for the use of melatonin in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) therapy
- Melatonin sensitizes human breast cancer cells to ionizing radiation by downregulating proteins involved in double-strand DNA break repair
- Melatonin and cancer: from the promotion of genomic stability to use in cancer treatment
- Melatonin as an adjuvant in radiotherapy for breast cancer patients
