Title:Anti-Degenerative Effect of Melatonin on Intervertebral Disc: Protective
Contribution against Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis, and Autophagy
Volume: 23
Issue: 7
Author(s): Karim Hemati, Mohammad Hossein Pourhanifeh, Iman Fatemi, Azam Hosseinzadeh and Saeed Mehrzadi*
Affiliation:
- Razi
Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Keywords:
Melatonin, intervertebral disc degeneration, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy.
Abstract: Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a leading cause of lower back pain. Although
the etiology of IVD degeneration (IVDD) is unclear, excessive oxidative stress, inflammation and
apoptosis, and disruption of autophagy play an important role in the pathogenesis of IVDD. Therefore,
finding a solution to mitigate these processes could stop or reduce the development of IVDD.
Melatonin, a powerful antioxidant, plays an important role in regulating cartilage tissue hemostasis.
Melatonin inhibits the destruction of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the disc. Melatonin preserves
ECM contents, including sox-9, aggrecan, and collagen II through inhibiting matrix degeneration
enzymes such as MMP-13. These protective effects may be mediated by the inhibition of
oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis, and regulation of autophagy in IVD cells.