Involvement of the pineal gland and melatonin in murine analgesia
Lakin, M.L.; Miller, C.H.; Stott, M.L.; Winters, W.D.
Life Sciences 29(24): 2543-2551
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0024-3205 PMID: 7321776 DOI: 10.1016/0024-3205(81)90710-4
Accession: 005752090
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Summary
Apparently, an intact pineal gland is required for the expression of the increased nocturnal sensitivity to morphine observed in mice. The day/night rhythm of morphine analgesia was not evident in pinealectomized mice. Mice treated with melatonin exhibited a dose-related analgesic response. The decrease in sensitivity to pain was not observed in animals in which melatonin administration was followed by the opiate antagonist, naloxone. Information derived from environmental lighting regulates sensitivity to pain via the pineal gland hormone melatonin, which is released and acts upon other areas of the CNS.
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