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Cited by 380Circadian rhythm and melatoninGenetics, Aging, and Longevity in Model Organismsmelanin and skin pigmentation

Melatonin, human aging, and age-related diseases

Karasek, M.·2004·Experimental Gerontology
DOI 10.1016/j.exger.2004.04.012
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Abstract

The worldwide prolongation of the mean life expectancy has resulted in a rapid increase of the size of the elderly population (over the age of 60), both in numbers and as a proportion of the whole. As a consequence, increasing the number of potential beneficiaries of health and pension funds, mainly those aged 65 and over raises many social and economic problems since they are supported by a relatively smaller number of potential contributors, i.e. those in the economically active ages between 18 and 64. Therefore, there is a search for any therapeutic agent improving quality of life in the elderly. A role for melatonin as such a compound was recently suggested. In this survey, data on the possible role of melatonin in human aging and age-related diseases are briefly presented. Undoubtedly the aging process is multi-factorial, and no single factor has been identified which satisfactorily explains the phenomenon. Although many theories relating the pineal gland and its secretory product melatonin to aging have been proposed, the role of this agent in the aging process is still unclear. However, for several reasons it seems reasonable to postulate a role for melatonin in this process. Melatonin levels decline gradually over the life-span and may be related to lowered sleep efficacy, very often associated with advancing age, as well as to deterioration of many circadian rhythms. Melatonin exhibits immunomodulatory properties, and a remodeling of immune system function is an integral part of aging. Finally, because melatonin is a potent free radical scavenger, its deficiency may result in reduced antioxidant protection in the elderly which may have significance not only for aging per se but also may contribute to the incidence or severity of some age-related diseases. Presently available data do not allow us to conclude that melatonin may have a role in extending normal longevity. However, although melatonin cannot be recognized as 'rejuvenating' agent, some of its actions may be beneficial for the aging process. Administration of melatonin may improve temporal organization in advanced age. Moreover, it has beneficial effects on sleep as well as age-related diseases. Although recommendations of melatonin supplementation in elderly should be considered, there is a need for extensive studies on the use of melatonin in order to improve the quality of life in advanced age.

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  • Several studies have reported declines in melatonin levels with ageing, although others find no difference compared with younger people in a healthy population.

    “Several studies have reported declines in melatonin levels with ageing, although others find no difference compared with younger people in a healthy population237,238.”

    From Rhythms of life: circadian disruption and brain disorders across the lifespan (2019) · cites this paper as [237]

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Authors
Karasek, M.
Affiliations
Medical University of Lodz (PL)
Corresponding author
Karasek, M.
Venue
Experimental Gerontology
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Published
2004-11
Volume
39
Issue
11-12
Pages
1723-1729
ISSN
0531-5565 (ISSN-L)
DOI
10.1016/j.exger.2004.04.012
OpenAlex
W2036542466
Cited by
380
References
75
Citations by year
2026: 13 · 2025: 30 · 2024: 21 · 2023: 24 · 2022: 20 · 2021: 25 · 2020: 17 · 2019: 18 · 2018: 20 · 2017: 21 · 2016: 12 · 2015: 15 · 2014: 17 · 2013: 22 · 2012: 11
FWCI
3.60
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
closed
Licence
www.elsevier.com/tdm/userlicense/1.0/ (tdm)
Locations
  • Experimental Gerontology (publishedVersion)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
Topics
  • Life Sciences › Neuroscience › Endocrine and Autonomic Systems › Circadian rhythm and melatonin
  • Life Sciences › Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology › Aging › Genetics, Aging, and Longevity in Model Organisms
  • Life Sciences › Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology › Cell Biology › melanin and skin pigmentation
Keywords
melatonin, human aging, age-related diseases, pineal gland, circadian rhythm, sleep quality, immunomodulation, free radical scavenging, antioxidant defense, melatonin supplementation, quality of life in old age, longevity
MeSH terms
Aged, Aging, Antioxidants, Circadian Rhythm, Female, Humans, Immunocompetence, Longevity, Male, Melatonin, Middle Aged, Pineal Gland, Sleep Wake Disorders, Neurodegenerative Diseases

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