MELATONIN, IMMUNITY AND STEROIDS
ABSTRACT
Melatonin is the secretion of pineal gland and a broad range of physiological functions are modulated by this hormone. Available finding of research shows that it is an immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory hormone. In this review, melatonin and its interactions with immune system as well as steroids have been discussed. The immune system protects the body from microorganisms present all around the environment. The anti-inflammatory nature of melatonin connects it with the immune system. It also helps in fighting with many infectious diseases. Melatonin acts on the immune responses through production of oxidative stress and cytokine modulation. It is less toxic so is prescribed by most of the clinicians during inflammation. Its overconsumption can suppress the steroidal effect and so it should be controlled.
Keywords: Melatonin, pineal gland, immune system, steroids, anti-inflammation.
INTRODUCTION
In early 1926, the pineal gland extracts from young bulls were fed to kittens for two years. They developed improved resistance to the diseases caused by feeding on the extracts and this was
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It was earlier thought to be produced only by the pineal gland but afterwards, it was reported to be produced in other body tissues like in the retina of eyes, the gastro-intestinal tract and also in the cells of immune system (Szczepanik, 2007). Melatonin is found in bacteria, fungi, plants and animals (including humans). It is found in the cells of the immune system, and it was reported that the melatonin originating from different organs of the body might affect the immune system of the body (Szczepanik, 2007). This hormone helps in the treatment of many sleep disorders like insomnia as it is possible to take it orally in the form of liquid, capsules or