Melatonin Protects Against Aluminum Toxicity
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VRP Staff
Researchers in Spain have discovered that the hormone Melatonin protects animals against the toxic effects of aluminum.
The study authors investigated the pro-oxidant effects triggered by aluminum exposure in rats, as well as the protective role of melatonin. The scientists injected two groups of male rats either with aluminum only or melatonin only, at doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg/day, respectively for 8 weeks. A third group of animals received 5 mg/kg/day of aluminum and 10 mg/kg/day of melatonin. At the end of the study, researchers measured markers of oxidative stress in the rats.
The results showed that aluminum exposure promoted oxidative stress in different neural areas of the animals, including those in which aluminum concentrations were not significantly increased. The changes observed in neural tissues indicated that aluminum acts as a pro-oxidant. Melatonin, on the other hand, acted as an antioxidant in the aluminum-treated animals and helped to protect the animals against aluminums damaging effects.
The researchers concluded, The protective effects of melatonin against cellular damage caused by aluminum-induced oxidative stress, together with its low toxicity, make melatonin worthy of investigation as a potential supplement to be included in the treatment of neurological disorders in which the oxidative effects must be minimized.
The study is consistent with previous studies that suggest aluminum worsens the oxidative stress that occurs in Alzheimers disease.
Reference:
Esparza JL, Gomez M, Romeu M, Mulero M, Sanchez DJ, Mallol J, Domingo JL. Aluminum-induced pro-oxidant effects in rats: protective role of exogenous melatonin. J Pineal Res. 2003 Aug;35(1):32-9.
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