Protective effect of melatonin in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Heart failure is characterized by the heart losing its capacity to pump sufficient blood to match the body’s demand. It is caused by  a variety of cardiovascular impairments. Among them,  atherosclerosis is the most common one. Although, a variety of medicines selectively target this pathology, the death rate due to atherosclerosis associated heart disorders remain high. To address this issue,  the use of antioxidants combined with conventional therapy to achieve synergistic effects has gained popularity. Melatonin is one of such antioxidants. In addition to its potent antioxidant activity, this molecule acts in harmony to protect the cardiovascular tissue. This review explores the various mechanisms by which melatonin protects the cardiovascular tissue. This information will contribute further insights into the role of melatonin in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis in normal as well as in pathological conditions. It will also help us to better understand the potential synergistic effects of melatonin with conventional therapy to successfully target the heart failure associated with atherosclerosis.