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Visible light, oxidative stress, and reproduction: The protective role of melatonin

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Melatonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland and reproductive tissues, regulates circadian rhythms, antioxidant activity, and fertility. Artificial light at night suppresses melatonin, leading to increased oxidative stress and compromised sperm and egg quality. During assisted reproductive technologies (ART), light exposure generates harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS), impairing gametes and embryos. Melatonin counteracts ROS, enhances antioxidant defenses, and improves embryo development, blastocyst formation, and implantation. This review examines melatonin's protective role in reproduction and how light exposure affects fertility. Understanding these mechanisms could enhance the success of ART and fertility treatments.

Source: International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics

DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.70882

Authors: Parvaneh Behi Shahreza, Tayyebeh Zamani‐Badi, Golnaz Shafiei, Atefeh Jamal, Ghazaleh Moshkdanian

Institutions: Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Circadian rhythm and melatonin

Subfield: Endocrine and Autonomic Systems

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W7130502525

FWCI: 6.279

Cites: 69

Cited by: 2

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