Pineal gland

The pineal gland, also known as the epiphysis, is a small cone-shaped endocrine gland located in the centre of the brain, near the base of the brain, between the two cerebral hemispheres. It produces a hormone called melatonin, which regulates our body's circadian rhythm, i.e. our internal clock that controls sleep and wakefulness.

Melatonin production is regulated by light, so the pineal gland is often called the "third eye" because it is sensitive to light and regulates our perception of light and darkness. The pineal gland is also involved in regulating certain functions of the endocrine system, such as regulating the production of sex hormones.

Recent research suggests that the pineal gland may also play a role in regulating mood and anxiety. However, as with many aspects of neuroscience, there is still much to discover about this intriguing little gland.

Biomarkers being studied include measurement of melatonin levels in blood or saliva, as well as measurements of pineal gland size from brain imaging.

In addition, studies have explored the presence of specific proteins in the pineal gland that could have implications for mental and neurological health, such as heat shock proteins and calcium-binding proteins.