New research published in late 2025 suggests that melatonin—best known for its role in sleep regulation—may also play an important role in slowing the development of atherosclerosis, the underlying process behind most cardiovascular disease.
The findings add to a growing body of research exploring how inflammation, immune signaling, and mitochondrial function contribute to plaque buildup in arteries—and how certain naturally occurring compounds may help interrupt those processes.
Why this matters: Atherosclerosis is the root cause of most heart attacks and strokes. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, making prevention strategies relevant to nearly everyone.
What the Study Found
The December 2025 study examined how melatonin influences atherosclerosis at a cellular level. Researchers focused on immune cells known as macrophages, which play a central role in inflammation and plaque formation within artery walls.
The researchers observed that melatonin appeared to:
- Slow the progression of atherosclerotic plaque
- Reduce pro-inflammatory behavior in macrophages
- Support healthier mitochondrial function inside vascular cells
These effects were linked to melatonin’s ability to limit excessive mitochondrial fission, a process associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular dysfunction.
Mitochondria, Inflammation, and Artery Health
Mitochondria are often described as the “power plants” of the cell, but they also help regulate immune signaling and inflammatory responses. When mitochondria become fragmented or dysfunctional, immune cells are more likely to shift into a highly inflammatory state.
The study suggests that melatonin helps stabilize mitochondrial structure by blocking a pathway involved in excessive mitochondrial division. By protecting mitochondrial integrity, melatonin may help calm inflammatory activity within artery walls.
In simple terms: Melatonin may help reduce artery inflammation by protecting the energy systems inside immune cells, which could slow plaque buildup over time.
Earth Clinic Acknowledgment
Earth Clinic thanks Art Solbrig for bringing this new research to our attention. Art has long shared in-depth information on melatonin and its wide-ranging effects on human health, and his continued contributions help keep Earth Clinic readers informed about emerging science.
Why This Research Is Important for Everyone
Atherosclerosis often develops silently over many years. By the time symptoms such as chest pain, heart attack, or stroke appear, arterial damage is often advanced.
Research that explores ways to slow plaque formation—especially through mechanisms tied to inflammation and cellular health—has broad implications not only for people with diagnosed cardiovascular disease, but also for those focused on long-term prevention.
Melatonin’s long history of use, low cost, and established role in circadian rhythm regulation make it an intriguing candidate for further cardiovascular research. However, researchers emphasize that additional human studies are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
Important note: This study does not suggest replacing medical treatment with melatonin. Anyone with cardiovascular disease or significant risk factors should consult a healthcare professional before using supplements.
Looking Ahead
This study adds to growing scientific interest in the connection between sleep-related hormones, mitochondrial health, and cardiovascular disease. If future human research confirms these findings, melatonin could become part of a broader, multi-pathway approach to supporting artery health.
As always, lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, sleep quality, and stress management remain foundational for cardiovascular prevention.
