Question

Bright light exposure prompts the retina of the eye to send signals to the (SCN), a tiny cluster of brain cells that in turn signals the gland to alter its release of the hormone . The effect of melatonin is to promote 1 (sleepiness / alertness). Secretion of melatonin by the pineal gland is (increased / decreased) in the dark, and (suppressed / enhanced) by light, which explains why exposure to bright artificial lights in the evening hours may delay sleep and can shift our circadian rhythms, potentially contributing to sleep deprivation.

Answer 1

1. Suprachiasmatic nucleus.

2. Pineal.

3. Melatonin.

4. Sleepiness.

5. Increased.

6. Suppressed.