First Evidence of Phyto-Melatonin as a Protective Bio-Molecule in Capra hircus

Abstract:

Melatonin is an evolutionarily conserved molecule found in animals, microorganisms, and plants. In plants, it is known as phyto-melatonin, which functions as a powerful antioxidant and protects against stress, apoptosis, and UV radiation. Unlike phyto-estrogens, however, the effects of phyto-melatonin on animals remain largely unexplored. The present study aimed to investigate the role of dietary phyto-melatonin in maintaining the health and immunity of goats. Goats were supplemented with corn (Zea mays), a natural source of phyto-melatonin containing about 1.4 ng/g (dry weight). Supplemented animals showed significant improvements in body weight, hematological parameters (AST, ALT, RBC count, Hb%), immune responses (TLC, lymphocyte percentage, PBMC stimulation rate), and metabolic markers (glucose, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, protein levels, HDL:LDL ratio). Antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, catalase, GPx) increased, while oxidative stress marker MDA decreased. Levels of estrogen, melatonin, IL-6, and TNF-α also increased, whereas testosterone remained unchanged. These findings provide the first evidence that phyto-melatonin from natural feed can act as a protective compound, enhancing health, immunity, and antioxidant status in Indian goats (Capra hircus). As phyto-melatonin–rich plants are inexpensive and widely available, they may serve as valuable dietary supplements for improving animal health and potentially benefiting humans in the future.