Some aspects of the pineal gland function
Nonaka, K.O.
Revista Brasileira de Biologia 56(1 Suppl Part 2): 339-344
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0034-7108 PMID: 9394512 Document Number: 466834
Rhythmic production of melatonin by the mammalian pineal gland occurs in response to noradrenergic stimulation which produces a cascade of biochemical events within the pinealocyte. Melatonin is involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including seasonal reproduction and diurnal activity rhythms. It was recently discovered that melatonin is a very potent hydroxyl radical scavenger, reinforcing its relationship with the aging process and the immune system.