Melatonin: A review of its physiopathological and therapeutic relationship with parasitic diseases

Abstract

Melatonin (MEL), an indoleamine hormone synthesized in almost all organisms including humans, has been the object of a considerable body of research due to its pleiotropic functions. Recently, focus has been given to its roles as a regulator of the immune and inflammatory response, in the context of numerous disorders; likewise, it has been studied as a potential therapeutic option in numerous infectious diseases. In this sense, the relationship between this molecule and parasitic infections is of particular interest; thus, the present review aims to compile knowledge acquired in the last few years, regarding the participation of MEL in the pathophysiology of parasitic infections, and its potential clinical applications. Since parasitic diseases still represent a significant burden on health systems worldwide, particularly in low and lower-middle income countries with limited access to sanitation facilities and resources for therapeutic approaches, the continuing study of MEL, as an affordable and fundamentally safe healing option, might help better control of these infections.