Circadian Rhythm

Question 1

What are the circadian rhythms?

Answer 1

The natural patterns of physiological and behavioural processes that are timed to a near 24h period

Question 2

What are the circadian rhythms responsible for?

Answer 2

Responsible for releasing melatonin

Question 3

Where are the circadian rhythms located?

Answer 3

The biological clock of the hypothalamus

-suprachiasmatic nucleus

Question 4

Where does melatonin come from and what does it do?

Answer 4

Released from pineal gland

Highly influenced by natural dark/light cycles (inhibited by light) through SNS activation. Light activates limbic core through neurons, and comes back neurally to activate the pineal gland
-indirect control of melatonin release

Question 5

Where is the pineal gland?

Answer 5

Deep within the brain. but not actually apart of it (like the anterior pituitary)
-release of melatonin is control day the SNS

Question 6

What is able to trick the melatonin system?

Answer 6

LED light can trick this system b y suppressing melatonin levels.
Viewing LED screens after dark can result in a decreased ability to fall asleep

Question 7

What are the 9 processes that the biological clock (suprachiasmiatic nucleus) controls?

Answer 7

1. Sleep
2. Food and water intake
3. Urine production
4. Blood Pressure
5. Platelette aggregation
6. White Blood Cell Production
7. Body Temperature Changes
8. Hormone Release
9. Menstrual Cycle