Review for 10.1186/s12876-020-01383-z (2020)

Reviewer’ s report
Title: Transcriptomic analysis on the effects of melatonin in gastrointestinal carcinomas
Version: 0Date: 26 Jan 2020
Reviewer's report:In this article Lu Ao and colleagues investigate using 4 different cell lines the impact of melatonin
on the gene expression profile of and the interactions of these genes using a proteomic approach.
The authors first analyze the different IC50s and then expose the cells to melatonin followed bymicroarrays. The experiments include identification of differentially expressed genes, theirinteraction network followed by correlation with sensitivity and or resistance to commonly usedchemotherapeutics. The results show that melatonin can overcome pro-survival and pro-proliferative signaling. The major pathways modulated by melatonin (based on differentiallyexpressed genes) were linked to Foxo signaling and rna transport to name a few.Specific comments:The experimental design and results are straightforward and some meaningful list of genes areidentifiedBiological valiation of the genes through RT-PCR, western blotting would strengthen themicroarray dataExperiment using knockdown and over-expression of the identified genes to modulate thesensitivity to chemotherapeutics would help strengthen the results furtherMinor typos were found that need to be checked and correctedLegend to figures can be enhanced.
Are the methods appropriate and well described?
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YesDoes the work include the necessary controls?
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YesAre the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the data shown?
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YesAre you able to assess any statistics in the manuscript or would you recommend an
additional statistical review?If an additional statistical review is recommended, please specify what aspects require further
assessment in your comments to the editors.
I am able to assess the statistics
Quality of written English
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Needs some language corrections before being publishedDeclaration of competing interests
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