Studies show that melatonin 'kills cancer': this is how it works

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, according to the National Cancer Institute, as in most cases it is not detected in time and this makes the situation worse. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the most common cancers are those of the colon and rectum, prostate, breast, lung and urinary bladder.

Several studies published on the scientific dissemination portal 'The Conversation' indicate that, instead of this disease decreasing over time, it will get worse every day and, despite the existence of prevention and detection programs, people must be more aware and undergo more frequent medical check-ups.

Although it is true that the term cancer seems to refer to a single disease, in reality it encompasses more than 100 different pathological entities with different tissues of origin.

For many years, they have conducted various investigations not only to prevent this disease, but also to find better treatments that are not as invasive as those available today.

Melatonin appears to play a crucial role in fighting cancer. This naturally occurring bioactive molecule is known for regulating the sleep-wake cycle and for its antioxidant activity; it is also noted for its anti-cancer properties.

Francisco López Muñoz, professor of pharmacology and vice-rector for research, science and doctoral studies at Camilo José Cela University and member of the Royal Academy of Doctors - Barcelona 1914, explained the fundamental role played by melatonin in the fight against cancer.

In the article published on the scientific dissemination portal 'The Conversation', called 'Melatonin: the 'intelligent assassin' to fight cancer', the anti-cancer properties of this hormone were highlighted. This study was carried out in collaboration with Alejandro Romero Martínez, professor of Toxicology at the Complutense University of Madrid, and Emilio Gil Martín, professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Vigo.

These three researchers discussed the benefits of melatonin when it comes to fighting cancer, as it could help slow the progression of this disease at different stages of the tumor cycle, from cellular transformation to metastasis.

“Melatonin prevents cell division and the formation of new blood vessels that nourish the cancer. In addition, depending on the type of tumor and the dose, either per se or in combination with other drugs used in chemotherapy, it has the potential to prevent the initiation of tumors, and the therapeutic capacity to delay malignant progression and metastatic spread ,” they noted.

Experts recommend including melatonin in treatments for this disease depending on the parameters of each person's circadian system, since it increases the efficacy and tolerability of the drugs.

They also explained that even in cancer processes that do not respond directly to melatonin, they have shown that this molecule can sensitize cancer cells and reinforce radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments.

“A particularly relevant finding is that melatonin has demonstrated these benefits, both in animal and human studies, without significant adverse effects and in a wide range of concentrations, which has earned it the nickname ‘smart killer ,'” they said.

For researchers, this hormone should be considered as an important resource when treating cancer, since there are several studies that speak of the numerous benefits that melatonin has for treating this disease.

“The strategy of combining chemotherapy drugs with melatonin could limit the side effects of the former on normal cells, allowing the active doses of the drugs to be increased without exacerbating their toxicity. This safety is crucial for the clinical management of cancer patients,” they concluded.

DIGITAL REACH EDITORIAL