Melatonin does not affect oxidative/inflammatory biomarkers in a closed-chest porcine model of acute myocardial infarction.

AIM To test whether melatonin reduces oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers in a closed-chest porcine model of acute myocardial infarction. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty pigs were randomized to receive a total dosage of 200 mg (0.4 mg/ml) of melatonin, or placebo immediately prior to reperfusion of a coronary artery balloon occlusion in a randomized, observer-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. We assessed high-sensitivity troponin T (hs-TnT), malondialdehyde and interleukin-1b, -6 and -10 at baseline, 30 min and 1, 2, 3 and 4 h after the start of reperfusion. RESULTS Seventeen pigs completed the trial. There was an increase in hs-TnT, but no significant difference between the melatonin-treated and placebo-treated groups. There were no significant differences in development of any of the circulating plasma markers between the two groups. CONCLUSION Melatonin treatment did not result in reduction of inflammatory or oxidative stress markers after experimental myocardial infarction compared to placebo.