Melatonin protects oocyte from reactive oxygen species

Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is secreted during the dark hours at night by the pineal gland, and it regulates a variety of important central and peripheral actions related to circadian rhythms and reproduction. Melatonin is believed to regulate ovarian function by the regulation of gonadotropin release in the hypothalamus-pituitary gland axis via its specific receptors. However, it has been discovered that melatonin is a powerful direct free radical scavenger and a broad-spectrum antioxidant. High concentrations of melatonin have been found in human preovulatory follicular fluids. This study focused on the intra-follicular role of melatonin as an antioxidant in the ovary. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are locally produced during the ovulatory process, seem to play an essential role on follicle rupture. However, excess ROS can also be responsible for oxidative stress

melatonin

oocyte

ovulation

reactive oxygen species

antioxidant