Role of melatonin in metabolic regulation

Melatonin is a protein hormone produced in the epiphysis and secreted into the blood and cerebrospinal fluid. For quite a long time in the scientific world it has been known about the importance of the hormone of the pineal gland on circadian rhythms. However, melatonin can have a large number of pleiotropic effects: antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, immunoregulatory properties, antihypertensive and neuroprotective effects, effects on the development of the placenta and fetus, pregnancy, as well as carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. We must not forget about the huge influence of the hormone on the mother - placenta - fetus system. There is growing interest in studying the effect of melatonin on systemic and tissue inflammatory reactions, which are one of the causes of hypertension and obesity. Progressive target organ damage involving excessive production of inflammatory mediators renders anti-inflammatory therapy strategies ineffective. Melatonin has been proven to help lower blood pressure, body weight and inflammation. The mechanisms of action of this ancient defense molecule involve several levels, from subcellular to intercellular. Cell mitochondria are a key element contributing to the development of an inflammatory response in vascular and adipose tissue and, accordingly, a potential pharmacological target. Melatonin, in turn, protects against mitochondrial dysfunction. This article will consider the main mechanisms of the influence of the hormone on metabolism, its role in preventing the development of systemic inflammation.