Melatonin Regulates Aging and Neurodegeneration through Energy Metabolism, Epigenetics, Autophagy and Circadian Rhythm Pathways

International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Anorut Jenwitheesuk¹  Chutikorn Nopparat¹  Sujira Mukda¹  Prapimpun Wongchitrat² 

[1] Research Center for Neuroscience, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakornpathom 73170, Thailand; E-Mails:;Center for Innovation Development and Technology Transfer, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakornpathom 73170, Thailand; E-Mail:

关键词: melatonin;    brain aging;    energy metabolism;    epigenetics;    autophagy;    circadian rhythm;    neurodegeneration;    sirtuins;   

DOI  :  10.3390/ijms150916848

来源: mdpi

【 摘 要 】

Brain aging is linked to certain types of neurodegenerative diseases and identifying new therapeutic targets has become critical. Melatonin, a pineal hormone, associates with molecules and signaling pathways that sense and influence energy metabolism, autophagy, and circadian rhythms, including insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), Forkhead box O (FoxOs), sirtuins and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathways. This review summarizes the current understanding of how melatonin, together with molecular, cellular and systemic energy metabolisms, regulates epigenetic processes in the neurons. This information will lead to a greater understanding of molecular epigenetic aging of the brain and anti-aging mechanisms to increase lifespan under healthy conditions.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© 2014 by the authors; licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.