RAS

[babygirl1]

Hello!

I was reviewing the RAS yesterday and read that it controlled our levels of awareness (sleep and wakefulness) and noticed the similarities between that and the hormone melatonin. Is there any real relation between the two?

Thanks!
Any replies appreciated

[REBORN]

Hormones aren't released by the RAS AFAIK and melatonin is a hormone.

Logically then I'd assume there's no relation but I'm not 100% sure.

[Anon123]

it came up on our practice exam (b.   Describe the physical changes in the reticular activating system during normal waking consciousness and identify the effect this has on a person’s consciousness), I had no idea what to put, but some of my friends thought that perhaps the RAS was responsible for the release of melatonin and cortisol.

However the answer was:
Increased level of blood flow and increased activity in neurons leads to increased awareness. As a person becomes drowsy, blood flow and level of neural activity decrease.

So not really sure :S, but I don't think it does

[babygirl1]

thanks for your help guys !

[Slumdawg]

Pineal gland releases melatonin..