Synthesis, Localization and Biological Effects of Melatoninon Intact and Diseased Intestine

DIAZ DE BARBOSA G; KOHAN R; PICOTTO G; TALAMONI G; COLLIN A; ARECO V; PERALTA E; TOLOSA DE TALAMONI

Melatonin: Production, functions and benefits

Nova Science Publishers, Inc.

Año: 2021; p. 1 - 436

Melatonin(MEL) content in the intestineis highly concentrated. It is synthesized by the enterochromaffin cells. The highest levels of MEL have been detected in the rectumand the colon.The plasma membraneMEL receptors, named MT1, MT2and MT3, have been found in the gut from rodents. MEL and the intestinal microbiotahave a bidirectional communication. MEL secretionseems to be related to food, light, and agingamong others. MEL exerts beneficial effects on the gut functions. There is also some evidencethat MEL could be useful for treatmentor co-treatment of intestinal diseasessuch as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseaseand some types of colon cancer.