The Pineal Gland Influences Rat Circadian Activity Rhythms in Constant Light

Jan 1, 1992Journal of biological rhythms

The pineal gland affects daily activity patterns in rats exposed to constant light

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Abstract

Pinealectomy in rats led to dissociation of circadian rhythms into multiple ultradian components under constant light conditions.

  • Pinealectomized rats showed a disruption in circadian rhythms that did not occur in sham-operated controls.
  • In constant light conditions, the circadian rhythms of pinealectomized rats separated into multiple shorter cycles.
  • After 12-21 days in constant darkness, the circadian patterns in pinealectomized rats reestablished themselves.
  • These findings suggest that the pineal gland may influence light sensitivity and coordination of circadian oscillators in the suprachiasmatic nuclei.

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