European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

METABOLIC AND PHYSIOLOGICAL FUNCTIONS OF MELATONIN’S ACTION

*Maria Gisele dos Santos and Raquel Simone Maccarini Zarpellon

ABSTRACT

The objective of this study was to review the metabolic and physiological functions of the Pineal Gland regarding the importance of feeding. The Pineal Gland is part of the neuroendocrine system and secretes the Melatonin hormone, which is responsible for the temporal organization of several physiological and behavioral events, such as the sleep-wake cycle regulation, the immune system regulation, cardiovascular regulation, as well as the genital system’s. Additionally, melatonin affects the rhythm of many other physiological processes at night: the digestion process slows down, the body temperature drops, the heart rate and blood pressure decrease, and the immune system is stimulated. Apparently, it increases the mobility and activity of defense cells, stimulates the formation of antibodies, and facilitates the defense against microorganisms. Melatonin is usually quoted as the key molecule in the control of the circadian cycle in animals and humans. It originates from serotonin, which, in turn, has the tryptophan amino acid precursor.

Keywords: The objective of this tryptophan amino acid precursor.