Melatonina: modulador de morte celular

Abstract

Apoptosis or planned cell death is a biological phenomenon that is essential for the development and maintenance of a cell population. In this process, senescent or damaged cells are eliminated after activation of a cell death program involving participation of pro-apoptotic molecules (Fas, Bax, caspases 2,3,6,7, 8 and 9). Molecule activation causes typical morphological changes, such as cell shrinkage, loss of adhesion to the extracellular matrix and neighboring cells, chromatin condensation, DNA fragmentation and formation of apoptotic bodies. Anti-apoptotic molecules (Bcl-2, FLIP) block the emergence and evolution of these cell changes and prevent cell death. The balance between pro-and anti-apoptotic molecules ensures tissue homeostasis. When apoptosis is out of control, it contributes to the emergence of several neoplastic, autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. Several inducing and inhibiting agents of apoptosis are recognized as potential weapons in the fight against disorders related to cell proliferation and death among, among which stand hormones out. Melatonin has been reported as an important anti-apoptotic agent in various tissues by reducing cell calcium uptake, mitigating the production of oxygen reactive species and decreasing pro-apoptotic proteins, such as Bax. The knowledge of new agents capable of acting on the course of apoptosis is important and valuable for developing further therapies against various diseases. Thus, the objective of this review was to clarify the main aspects of cell death by apoptosis and the role of melatonin in this process

Specific inhibitor of Notch‑3 enhances the sensitivity of NSCLC cells to gemcitabine

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Melatonin on hypothyroidism and gonadal development in rats: a review

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