The effects of melatonin on autophagic cell death

Abstract

Melatonin is known to have effects on the regulation of cellular autophagy. The role of melatonin in inducing and reducing the autophagic processes of cells could be of great importance in reduction of cellular stressors. Recently, melatonin has been found to induce autophagy in cancerous tumor cells. This mechanism of autophagic induction is potentially related to the prevention of tumor growth. Recent advances could reveal more information about the potential uses of melatonin as an anti-cancer agent.