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Melatonin as a therapeutic tool in ophthalmology: implications for glaucoma and uveitis
Author(s) -
Rosenstein Ruth E.,
PandiPerumal Seithikurippu R.,
Srinivasan Venkataramanujan,
Spence D. Warren,
Brown Gregory M.,
Cardinali Daniel P.
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
journal of pineal research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.881
H-Index - 131
eISSN - 1600-079X
pISSN - 0742-3098
DOI - 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2010.00764.x
Subject(s) - melatonin , uveitis , glaucoma , nitric oxide , ophthalmology , melatonin receptor , medicine , pathogenesis , antioxidant , biology , biochemistry
Several lines of evidence support the view that increased free radical generation and altered nitric oxide (NO) metabolism play a role in the pathogenesis of highly prevalent ocular diseases, such as glaucoma and uveitis. Data are discussed indicating that melatonin, being an efficient antioxidant that displays antinitridergic properties, has a promising role in the treatment of these ocular dysfunctions. Melatonin synthesis occurs in the eye of most species, and melatonin receptors are localized in different ocular structures. In view of the fact that melatonin lacks significant adverse collateral effects even at high doses, the application of melatonin could potentially protect ocular tissues by effectively scavenging free radicals and excessive amounts of NO generated in the glaucomatous or uveitic eye.