Journal of Neurology Research, ISSN 1923-2845 print, 1923-2853 online, Open Access
Article copyright, the authors; Journal compilation copyright, J Neurol Res and Elmer Press Inc
Journal website http://www.neurores.org

Review

Volume 2, Number 3, June 2012, pages 69-81

Alzheimer’s Disease: Focus on the Neuroprotective Role of Melatonin

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1. Biosynthesis of melatonin.
Figure 2.
Figure 2. Schematic diagram showing melatonin’s metabolic pathways in periphery and in CNS.
Figure 3.
Figure 3. Pathophysiology of AD and melatonin’s neuroprotective actions.
Figure 4.
Figure 4. Melatonin’s effects on mitochondrial pathophysiology in AD.

Tables

Table 1. Summary of Melatonin’s Neuroprotective Effects in AD: Mechanisms
 
1. Inhibition of amyloid-β protein deposition
2. Inhibits the formation of amyloid fibrils
3. Scavenges free radicals induced by amyloid βprotein
4. Inhibits lipid peroxidation reactions in neural tissues
5. Suppresses protein hyperphosphorylation
6. Activates GSK-3 (glycogen synthase kinase)
7. Prevents cytoskeletal disorganization
8. Improves sleep quality in AD patients and may thereby arrest neurodegeneration

 

Table 2. Summary of Melatonin’s Beneficial Physiologic and Metabolic Effects on Mitochondrial Dysfunction Induced by Amyloid-Β in Neural Tissues
 
1. prevents intramitochondrial effects of amyloid-β effects
2. prevents opening of mitochondrial transition pores
3. increases mitochondrial respiratory enzyme complex activities
4. safeguards electron flow through the electron transport chain
5. increases intramitochondrial GSH pool
6. prevents intramitochondrial lipid peroxidation
7. prevents mitochondrial DNA oxidation
8. increases ATP synthesis
9. prevents cell death by necrotic effects or apoptotic effects