Melatonin enhances NK cell function in aged mice by increasing T-bet expression via the JAK3-STAT5 signaling pathway.

Abstract

Natural killer (NK) cells are crucial innate immune cells that provide defense against viruses and tumors. However, aging is associated with alterations in NK cell composition and compromised cell functions. Melatonin, known for its anti-tumor effects, has been reported to improve NK cell function. However, the molecular mechanism underlying melatonin's effect on senescent NK cells remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the mechanism by which melatonin enhances the function of senescent NK cells. Our findings revealed that melatonin significantly increased the number and function of NK cells in aging mice. The results suggest that melatonin enhances NK cell proliferation, degranulation, and IFN-γ secretion. Further investigations demonstrated that melatonin promotes NK cell maturation and activation, mainly via the JAK3/STAT5 signaling pathway, leading to increased expression of T-bet. These discoveries provide a theoretical basis for potential immunotherapy strategies based on melatonin-mediated modulation of NK cell function in aging individuals.