Melatonin receptor signaling in human pathologies: from molecular mechanisms to therapeutic targets

The melatonin receptor 1 A (MTNR1A), a highly conserved G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), mediates crucial physiological functions. Its structure features an N-terminus responsible for melatonin binding and a C-terminus that initiates downstream signaling pathways to modulate target gene expression. Given MTNR1A's ability to form homodimers or heterodimers with other GPCRs, its expression levels are critical for the precise control of cellular signaling. This review article provides a comprehensive update on MTNR1A, highlighting recent developments concerning its expression distribution, gene regulation, protein motifs, and mediated signaling pathways. We also discuss the clinical relevance of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with the MTNR1A receptor and the range of diseases linked to its dysfunction. Current understanding and future perspectives regarding gene regulation and the stimulation of MTNR1A expression are critically addressed. Furthermore, we investigate the role of MTNR1A genetic variants in idiopathic osteoporosis and the association between decreased MTNR1A expression and membranous nephropathy. The systemic involvement of MTNR1A downregulation in cancer, fetal growth restriction, type 2 diabetes, and Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases is further underlined by its established biological functions. In conclusion, targeting MTNR1A-related downregulation and developing specific agonists or modulators offer a promising avenue for advancement in therapeutic medicine.