Melatonin Receptor Expression in Colorectal Polyps: Associations with Proliferative-Apoptotic Activity, Hormone Receptor Expression, and Stem Cell Characteristics
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Colorectal polyps represent a heterogeneous group of lesions ranging from benign proliferations to precancerous conditions with significant malignant potential. In recent years, increasing attention has been directed toward the role of melatonin and its receptors (MT1 and MT2) in the regulation of tumorigenesis. Melatonin receptors are involved in the control of cellular proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, immune responses, and stem-cell-related pathways, making them promising biomarkers in colorectal neoplasia.
The aim of this critical literature review is to evaluate current evidence regarding melatonin receptor expression in dysplastic and non-dysplastic colorectal polyps and to explore its relationship with dysplasia grade, proliferative-apoptotic activity, hormone receptor expression, and stem cell characteristics. The review discusses the biological functions of MT1 and MT2 receptors, their involvement in major signalling pathways including Wnt/β-catenin and MAPK/ERK, and their potential contribution to colorectal tumor initiation and progression.
Available evidence suggests that reduced melatonin receptor expression may be associated with dysplastic progression, increased cellular proliferation, impaired apoptosis, and a more aggressive biological phenotype. Furthermore, melatonin signalling appears to interact with hormonal regulatory mechanisms and stem-cell-associated pathways, highlighting its potential role in colorectal carcinogenesis. A better understanding of melatonin receptor biology may contribute to the identification of novel diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers and support the development of personalised therapeutic strategies for patients with colorectal polyps and colorectal cancer.
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