Human A&P II: The Pineal Gland

pinealocytes

cells that make up the pineal gland that produce and secrete melatonin

possible role of melatonin in puberty

high melatonin levels in children compared to adults may prevent gonadotropin release, inhibiting puberty

melatonin

hormone that is produced and secreted by the pineal gland that helps regulate the body's circadian rhythm

stimulus that triggers the production and secretion of melatonin

level of light received from the environment

location of the pineal gland

located inferior and posterior to the hypothalamus

cells that make up the pineal gland

made up of pinealocytes

brain structure that processes light stimulus to and signals the pineal gland

suprachiastmatic nucleus

general function of the pineal gland

this gland produces and secretes hormones that regulate the sleep cycle/circadian rhythm, body temperature, appetite