Melatonin Modulation in Placental Function and Fetal Development
Summary
Melatonin, traditionally recognised as a pineal‐derived regulator of circadian rhythms, has emerged as a pivotal modulator of placental physiology and embryonic growth. Beyond its chronobiotic role, melatonin is synthesised within the trophoblast and acts locally to scavenge free radicals, bolster endogenous antioxidant defences and limit inflammatory signalling at the maternal–fetal interface. Through these actions, it preserves placental architecture, supports nutrient and oxygen delivery, and guides vascular remodelling. Melatonin receptors in placental cells mediate signal transduction pathways—such as Nrf2-driven antioxidant gene expression and STAT-associated decidualisation—ensuring robust trophoblast invasion and immune tolerance. Perturbations in melatonin synthesis or signalling have been linked to pregnancy complications including fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia and preterm birth. Recognition of melatonin’s dual endocrine and paracrine roles has opened avenues for its clinical application in monitoring placental health, improving reproductive outcomes in livestock models and exploring adjunctive therapies for human gestational disorders.
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Melatonin Modulation in Placental Function and Fetal Development publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in melatonin modulation in placental function and fetal development across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Melatonin: Endogenous indoleamine hormone that regulates circadian rhythms and acts as an antioxidant.
Oxidative stress: Imbalance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidant defences leading to cellular damage.
Trophoblast: Placental cell type responsible for nutrient exchange and hormone production at the maternal–fetal interface.
Nrf2 pathway: Transcriptional cascade that upregulates antioxidant genes in response to oxidative stress.
Preeclampsia: Pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder characterised by endothelial dysfunction and placental insufficiency.
Anti-angiogenic factors: Molecules such as soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 that inhibit blood vessel formation and contribute to placental pathology.
References
- Melatonin: the placental antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Frontiers in Immunology (2024).
- Melatonin Supplementation during the Late Gestational Stage Enhances Reproductive Performance of Sows by Regulating Fluid Shear Stress and Improving Placental Antioxidant Capacity. Antioxidants (2023).
- Melatonin Promotes Uterine and Placental Health: Potential Molecular Mechanisms. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2019).
- Melatonin for the Management of Preeclampsia: A Review. Antioxidants (2021).
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