Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Melatonin: a Focus on the Role of NLRP3 Inflammasome

Melatonin is a hormone of the pineal gland that contributes to the regulation of physiological activities, such as sleep, circadian rhythm, and neuroendocrine processes. Melatonin is found in several plants and has pharmacological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective. It also has shown therapeutic efficacy in treatment of cancer and diabetes. Melatonin affects several molecular pathways to exert its protective effects. The NLRP3 inflammasome is considered a novel target of melatonin. This inflammasome contributes to enhanced level of IL-1 beta, caspase-1 activation, and pyroptosis stimulation. The function of NLRP3 inflammasome has been explored in various diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders. By inhibiting NLRP3, melatonin diminishes inflammation and influences various molecular pathways, such as SIRT1, microRNA, long non-coding RNA, and Wnt/beta-catenin. Here, we discuss these molecular pathways and suggest that melatonin-induced inhibition of NLRP3 should be advanced in disease therapy

Automated summary

Melatonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland, plays a crucial role in regulating physiological activities such as sleep and circadian rhythm. It possesses various pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and protective effects on the liver, heart, and nervous system. Studies have shown that melatonin exerts therapeutic efficacy in treating cancer and diabetes by affecting multiple molecular pathways.