Melatonin and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Mini-Review

Melatonin is a hormone with neuroregulatory, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Its benevolent effects on Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has been replicated in both animal models and clinical studies. Melatonin was effective in deterring the toxic effects of amyloid beta (Aβ) and reducing tau phosphorylation. Conflicting results exist for the clinical effectiveness of melatonin administration in AD patients. The positive effects of melatonin in AD have mainly been viewed from its role in sleep and circadian rhythm. Several limitations exist in the previous research on the relationship between melatonin and AD. Future research should focus on sharpening methodology, and adopting more expanded, multi-faceted approach, with consideration for melatonin’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.