Melatonin: Protection of the Intervertebral Disc

Abstract

     Low back pain (lumbar pain) due to injury of or damage to intervertebral discs is common in all societies.  The loss of work time as a result of this problem is massive.  Recent research suggests that melatonin may prevent or counteract intervertebral disc damage. This may be especially relevant in aging populations given that endogenous melatonin, in most individuals, dwindles with increasing age. The publications related to melatonin and its protection of the intervertebral disc are reviewed herein, including definition of some molecular mechanisms that account for melatonin’s protective actions.