Melatonin strengthens bone, Synergy with Vitamins D and K2

Why does Melatonin increase bone strength, cartilage and collagen quality?

Consistent with my recent post about collagen cross linking and osteoporosis is this article showing antioxidants reduce non-enzymatic weak collagen cross linking in connective tissue including bone.

Collagen cross links are trivalent strong or bivalent weaker forms from enzymatic activity;  respectfully (the product of cellular activity requiring ATP) and non-enzymatic from AGP advanced glycosylated products (diabetes and aging) and Reactive Oxygen Species (aging).

Here Melatonin reduces the products that increase weak cross linkages thereby strengthening bone both in the cell and extra cellular matrix.  The quality of bone with strong cross linkages is independent of calcification or mineral content!  Ideally, one with/or at risk of osteoporosis will have both.  I also note that Melatonin is unique in its ability to reduce the rate of neurodegenerative brain changes by reducing activation of the inflamasome or innate cellular immune "autoimmunity."

Also note that Alpha Lipoic acid an antioxidant has also made bone stronger likely through the same mechanism of melatonin.

http://www.omicsgroup.org/journals/an-early-development-budget-impact-model-for-the-use-of-melatonin-in-the-treatment-and-prevention-of-osteoporosi-2167-065X-1000132.pdf