Influence of the pineal on wound healing

REMOVAL of the pineal gland affects endocrine functions in both birds and mammals, and has been shown to cause increased growth and spread of malignant tumours in the rodent. There are several hypotheses as to the mechanism by which the pineal affects these processes1–4, but no role for the gland or its hormonal product melatonin has been suggested in normal processes. We have now found that pinealectomy can slow wound healing and that this effect can be reversed by treatment with melatonin.