Impact of melatonin on skeletal muscle and exercise

Skeletal muscle disorders are dramatically increasing with human aging with enormous
sanitary costs and impact on the quality of life. Preventive and therapeutic tools to limit the onset and
progression of muscle frailty include nutrition and physical training. Melatonin, the indole
produced at nighttime in the pineal and extra-pineal sites in mammalians, has recognized anti-aging,
anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant properties. Mitochondria are the favorite target of melatonin,
which maintains them efficiently, scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative damage. Here,
we discuss the most recent evidence of dietary melatonin efficacy in age-related skeletal muscle
disorders in cellular, preclinical, and clinical studies. Furthermore, we analyze the emerging impact
of melatonin on physical activity. Finally, we consider the newest evidence of the gut–muscle axis
and the influence of exercise and probably melatonin on the microbiota. In our opinion, this review
reinforces the relevance of melatonin as a safe nutraceutical that limits skeletal muscle frailty and
prolongs physical performance.