Pineal Gland.

 

• The pineal gland is located in the epithalamus, near the center of the brain, between the two hemispheres.

• Pinealocytes: the cells of Pineal gland secrete a hormone called “Melatonin”.

• Melatonin is responsible for induction of sleep and wakefulness.

• Secretion of melatonin is dependent on light.

• Day light causes decreased blood levels of melatonin and induces wakefulness.

• As light starts to fall after evening, blood levels of Melatonin start rising, inducing sleep.

• It helps in maintaining circadian rhythms of the body.

• It promotes growth and also possesses antioxidant action.

• Its supplements are used to treat jet lags.