Pineal region tumors in children

Abstract

The pineal gland, located at the roof of the diencephalon, is a cone-shaped structure dorsal to the midbrain tectum. It is composed of a variety of cells, including astrocytes, ganglion cells, blood vessels, and pinocytes. Pineocytes, the parenchymal cells of this organ, are specialized neurons rich in monoaminergic neurotransmitters, including serotonin, norepinepherin, and melatonin. While retinal proteins such as S-antigen are expressed on some pineocytes, the pineal gland is not photosensitive in humans and higher primates. Collateral projections from the retino-thalamic tract as well as sympathetic fibers from the superior cervical ganglion innervate the pineal gland [3]. Its role in humans and higher primates is controversial, but likely related to synchronizing neuro-endocrine responses to sympathetic and circadian light-dark cycles [32]. © 2010 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.