Melatonin—A Powerful Antioxidant in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Renata Kołodziejska, Alina Woźniak, Rafał Bilski, Roland Wesołowski, Daria Kupczyk, Marta Porzych, Weronika Wróblewska, Hanna Pawluk
Abstract
Melatonin (MEL)is an endogenous hormone with antioxidant potential that plays an important role in maintaining redox homeostasis. MEL and its derivatives directly scavenge free oxygen and nitrogen radicals. Melatonin inhibits lipid peroxidation, stimulates antioxidant enzymes, and reduces metal toxicity. It stabilizes mitochondrial activity and suppresses inflammatory signaling. It takes part in neurogenesis, neuroprotection, and modulation of the cardiovascular system. It prevents many diseases of free radical etiology, i.e., neurodegenerative and circulatory system diseases and ischemic stroke. Supplementation with this antioxidant can slow down the aging process and provide protection against diseases of the central nervous system and support the body's natural antioxidant system. This study uses current reports from the literature and meta-analyses of the antioxidant mechanisms of melatonin and its importance in neurodegenerative diseases.