Protective effects of melatonin on male fertility preservation and reproductive system.

ABSTRACT

Melatonin is a ubiquitous indoleamine hormone synthesized primarily by the pineal gland. Diverse biological actions of melatonin involve quite complex mechanisms via its membrane receptors. More recently, studies have focused on the role of melatonin in male fertility preservation and male reproductive system. The protective effects of melatonin on immature testicular tissue freshness and activity maintenance and the preservation of sperm and spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) have attracted considerable attention in recent years. Furthermore, since melatonin has strong antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties, researchers have examined its potential role in male reproductive system. In this article, recent progress regarding melatonin's effects on male fertility preservation and its potential role is reviewed.