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The pineal gland (also known as the pineal body [1] or epiphysis cerebri) is a small endocrine gland in the brain of most vertebrates. It produces melatonin, a serotonin-derived hormone, which modulates sleep patterns following the diurnal cycles. [2] The shape of the gland resembles a pine cone, which gives it its name. [3]
Melatonin, an indoleamine, is a natural compound produced by various organisms, including bacteria and eukaryotes. [1] Its discovery in 1958 by Aaron B. Lerner and colleagues stemmed from the isolation of a substance from the pineal gland of cows that could induce skin lightening in common frogs.
Pinealocytes are the main cells contained in the pineal gland, located behind the third ventricle and between the two hemispheres of the brain.The primary function of the pinealocytes is the secretion of the hormone melatonin, important in the regulation of circadian rhythms. [1]
The thyroid secretes thyroxine, the pituitary secretes growth hormone, the pineal secretes melatonin, the testis secretes testosterone, and the ovaries secrete estrogen and progesterone. [2] Glands that signal each other in sequence are often referred to as an axis, such as the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis.
The epithalamus is associated with sleep disorders like insomnia revolving around circadian rhythms of sleep wake cycles. The close connection of the epithalamus with the limbic system regulates the secretion of melatonin by the pineal gland and the regulation of motor pathways and emotions. [9] The secretion of melatonin happens in a cycle.
Endogenous melatonin is normally secreted from the pineal gland of the brain. [21] Melatonin is thought to activate melatonin receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus to regulate the circadian clock and sleep–wake cycles. [ 21 ]
Endocrine glands are ductless glands of the endocrine system that secrete their products, hormones, directly into the blood. The major glands of the endocrine system include the pineal gland , pituitary gland , pancreas , ovaries , testicles , thyroid gland , parathyroid gland , hypothalamus and adrenal glands .
Melatonin: MT Amino acid derivative ... thyroid gland: secrete thyroxine (T 4) and ... 5-DHT or DHT is a male reproductive hormone that targets the prostate gland ...