FTP, identify this tiny gland, which derives its name from its pine-cone shape.
Like the thymus, this gland is larger in children and begins to shrink with the onset of puberty. It can be easily seen on X-rays due to small deposits of calcium that it receives, and it can be alternately referred to as the epiphysis cerebri. In lower vertebrates it functions as a light receptor and is believed to be the predecessor to the human eye. Its primary endocrine function in humans is the secretion of melatonin. FTP, identify this tiny gland, which derives its name from its pine-cone shape.
Like the thymus, this gland is larger in children and begins to shrink with the onset of puberty.
pineal gland