Pineal Gland

The pineal gland is a small, pinecone-shaped endocrine gland located in the brain. It is part of the endocrine system, which consists of glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Anatomy

The pineal gland is located deep within the brain, between the two hemispheres. It is attached to the roof of the third ventricle of the brain. The gland is made up of pinealocytes, which are the main cells that produce the hormone melatonin.

Function

The pineal gland plays a crucial role in regulating the body's internal clock and the sleep-wake cycle. It produces and secretes the hormone melatonin, which helps to control the body's circadian rhythm. Melatonin levels rise in the evening, signaling to the body that it is time to sleep, and decrease in the morning, signaling wakefulness.

Study Guide

1. Where is the pineal gland located in the brain?
2. What type of cells make up the pineal gland?
3. What is the function of the pineal gland?
4. Which hormone is produced and secreted by the pineal gland?
5. How does melatonin regulate the sleep-wake cycle?

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