Neuroprotective effects of melatonin on olfactory dysfunction: evidence from a 3-methylindole–induced anosmia model
Acta Oto-Laryngologica, cilt.146, sa.6, ss.670-675, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 146 Sayı: 6
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1080/00016489.2026.2626964
- Dergi Adı: Acta Oto-Laryngologica
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Biomedical Reference Collection: Corporate Edition (EBSCO), Psychology & Behavioral Sciences Collection (EBSCO)
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.670-675
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Anosmia, melatonin, olfactory epithelium, 3-methylindole, neuroprotection
- Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Background: Anosmia is a loss of olfactory function caused by infectious, traumatic, or chemical injury and negatively affects quality of life. 3-Methylindole (3-MI) induces olfactory epithelial damage through oxidative and inflammatory mechanisms. Melatonin is a neuroprotective hormone with antioxidant and regenerative properties. Aims/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of melatonin in a 3-MI–induced mouse model of anosmia. Materials and Methods: Sixteen adult male mice were divided into melatonin-treated and control groups (n = 8). Anosmia was induced by intraperitoneal 3-MI administration. One week later, melatonin or saline was administered. Olfactory function was assessed using the food-finding test on days 7, 14, and 21. Histopathological evaluation was performed on day 21. Results: Melatonin significantly improved olfactory performance at all time points compared with controls (p < 0.001). Histopathological analysis showed preserved epithelial structure, reduced ciliary loss, and decreased inflammation in the melatonin group. Conclusions: Melatonin provided both functional recovery and morphological protection in a chemically induced anosmia model. Significance: These findings highlight melatonin’s potential as a safe and effective therapeutic agent for the treatment of olfactory dysfunction following chemical injury.