Abstract
THE PINEAL GLAND, VIA MELATONIN, PROTECTS DNA, COORDfNATES THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM WITH THE IMMUNE SYSTEM AND CONTROLS THE TIMING OF REPRODUCTION By Craig Lincoln Anthony, M.S. A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science at Virginia Commonwealth University. Virginia Commonwealth University, 2001 Director: Dr. Hugo Seibel The pineal gland secretes the hormone melatonin (n-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) with a circadian rhythm. This secretion's rhythm becomes disrupted with age. When melatonin secretion is decreased with advanced age, the immune, endocrine and reproductive systems fail to function optimally. Melatonin possesses lipophilic and anti-oxidant properties, providing it with access to nuclei. Melatonin protects the DNA, preventing cancerous mutation. Hippocampal degeneration and age increase and prolong the adrenocortical responses to stress. Melatonin supplementation reduces the prolonged exposure to harmful hormones.
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