The effect of intraperitoneal melatonin supplementation on the release of thyroid hormones and testosterone in rats with hyperthyroid

OBJECTIVE: Melatonin has a general inhibitory effect on the reproductive system and thyroid functions. Testosterone secretion increases in parallel to thyroid hormones in hyperthyroidism. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of melatonin application on total T3, T4 and testosterone in hyperthyroid rats. METHODS: This study was performed on 4 groups each consisted of 6 male Spraque Dawley rats. Control group (G1); sham group (G2); applied 0.5 ml/day of serum physiologic intraperitoneally for 2 weeks, hyperthyroid group (G3); applied 0.3 mg/kg/day thyroxine intraperitoneally for 2 weeks, and hyperthyroid and melatonin supplemented group (G4); applied 0.3 mg/kg/day thyroxine and 3 mg/kg/day melatonin. Blood samples taken by way of decapitation were analysed for total T3, T4 and testosterone by RIA. RESULTS: Serum total T3 and total testosterone levels were the highest in hyperthyroid group (G3), whereas in hyperthyroid and melatonin supplemented group (G4) were the lowest (P<0.001). Total T4 levels were higher in group 3 than group 1, 2 and 4 (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Results revealed that melatonin supplementation in hyperthyroidism suppress secretion of thyroid hormones and testosterone secretion.