An Overview of the Effects of Melatonin on Nervous System Diseases

Melatonin is a hormone secreted from the pineal gland and plays an important role in regulating the brain functions. This hormone with antioxidant activity supports the body against internal and external damaging factors. Melatonin reduces the production of free radicals by preserving mitochondrial homeostasis, and contributes to ATP synthesis in mitochondria. Reduction of melatonin by aging is one of the hypotheses suggested to be implicated in increase of the incidence of neurological disorders. Various factors play a role in the regulation and production of the melatonin. This hormone can act as a neuroprotective agent for some neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, depression, and migraine. According to the positive effects on the nervous system, non-toxic properties following long-term application, and the absence of side effects, melatonin can be a suitable compound for treatment of some neurological disease.