The Multiple Functions of Melatonin: Applications in the Military Setting

Abstract

The aim of this review is to provide the reader with a general overview on the rationale for the use of melatonin by military personnel. This is a technique that is being increasingly employed to manage growing psycho-physical loads. In this context, melatonin, a pleotropic and regulatory molecule, has a potential preventive and therapeutic role in maintaining the operational efficiency of military personnel. In battlefield conditions in particular, the time to treatment after an injury is often a major issue since the injured may not have immediate access to medical care. Any drug that would help to stabilize a wounded individual, especially if it can be immediately administered (e.g., per os) and has a very high safety profile over a large range of doses (as melatonin does) would be an important asset to reduce morbidity and mortality. Melatonin may also play a role in the oscillatory synchronization of the neuro–cardio–respiratory systems and, through its epigenetic action, poses the possibility of restoring the main oscillatory waves of the cardiovascular system, such as the Mayer wave and RSA (respiratory sinus arrhythmia), which, in physiological conditions, result in the oscillation of the heartbeat in synchrony with the breath. In the future, this could be a very promising field of investigation.

Potential Neuroprotective Role of Melatonin in Sepsis-Associated Encephalopathy Due to Its Scavenging and Anti-Oxidative Properties

“…It was proven that melatonin chelates metal ions—melatonin was able to create complexes with copper, iron, cadmium or aluminum, blocking the participation of these ions in oxidant-producing reactions [ 89 ]. Therefore, melatonin is able to protect tissues from oxidative, metal-catalyzed damage [ 90 , 91 ].…”

Chitosan–sEPDM and Melatonin–Chitosan–sEPDM Composite Membranes for Melatonin Transport and Release

“…However, there are more and more cases: trauma following various accidents [ 25 ], contusions [ 26 ], dislocation of bones from the joints [ 27 ], broken or displaced teeth in contact sports or that use special equipment or devices [ 28 ], blows to the head and spine [ 29 ], fractures and various accidents in the practice of motorized sports [ 30 ], which require the application and delivery of melatonin locally, alone or accompanying other drugs or pharmaceutical preparations [ 31 ].…”