PSYCHOLOGY OF EMOTIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -Melatonin plays a crucial role in the synchronization of internal biological events to external environmental cues. Its rhythmic secretion by the pineal gland is regulated by the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the anterior hypothalamus, with the light-dark cycle being the main synchronizer.

Detailed explanation-2: -The suprachiasmatic nucleus, via an inhibitory projection to the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, controls the sympathetic output to the pineal gland that is responsible for melatonin secretion. This pathway is responsible for the peak of melatonin secretion during darkness.

Detailed explanation-3: -Your pineal gland is a tiny endocrine gland in the middle of your brain that helps regulate your body’s circadian rhythm by secreting the hormone melatonin.

Detailed explanation-4: -Melatonin secreted by the pineal gland is an important part of the body’s circadian timing system and can synchronise daily rhythms (see the articles on jet lag and circadian rhythm sleep disorders).

Detailed explanation-5: -The pineal gland is a very small gland in the centre of the brain shaped like a pine cone, which is where it gets its name. It is part of the endocrine system. It produces a hormone called melatonin.