pinealocyteissa
Pinealocytes are the primary parenchymal cells of the pineal gland, a small endocrine gland located in the vertebrate brain. These cells are responsible for the synthesis and secretion of melatonin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating sleep-wake cycles, also known as circadian rhythms. Pinealocytes are characterized by their pale cytoplasm and basophilic nuclei. Electron microscopy reveals abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and numerous secretory granules, all indicative of their active role in protein synthesis and hormone release.
The activity of pinealocytes is modulated by light. Light entering the eyes is transmitted via the retinohypothalamic