FTP, what is this gland whose name derives from its pine-cone shape?
It functions as a light receptor in many lower vertebrates, often with nervous connections to the eye, and has been suggested as an evolutionary forerunner to the modern eye. Also known as the epiphysis cerebri, it develops from the roof of the dience  phalon, shrinking and calcifying with age. It is believed to play a role in sexual maturation, secreting the hormone melatonin, but is no longer seen as Òthe seat of the soulÓ. FTP, what is this gland whose name derives from its pine-cone shape?
It functions as a light receptor in many lower vertebrates, often with nervous connections to the eye, and has been suggested as an evolutionary forerunner to the modern eye.
pineal gland