Melatonin: a “Higgs boson” in human reproduction

Abstract

As the Higgs boson could be a key to unlocking mysteries regarding our Universe, melatonin, a somewhat mysterious substance secreted by the pineal gland primarily at night, might be a crucial factor in regulating numerous processes in human reproduction. Melatonin is a powerful antioxidant which has an essential role in controlling several physiological reactions, as well as biological rhythms throughout human reproductive life. Melatonin, which is referred to as a hormone, but also as an autocoid, a chronobiotic, a hypnotic, an immunomodulator and a biological modifier, plays a crucial part in establishing homeostatic, neurohumoral balance and circadian rhythm in the body through synergic actions with other hormones and neuropeptides. This paper aims to analyze the effects of melatonin on the reproductive function, as well as to shed light on immunological and oncostatic properties of one of the most powerful hormones.

• Cancer
• immune function
• melatonin
• reproductive function
• reproductive health

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Professor Russel Reiter (University of Texas Health Science Center) for useful instructions during the preparation of this manuscript and for permission to use and adapt figures from his work.

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest.