Which of the following hormones is secreted by the pineal gland and plays a key role in regulating the circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle)? MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland, a small endocrine gland located in the brain. Its secretion is highly sensitive to light and dark cycles, being produced in higher amounts at night. Melatonin is crucial for regulating the circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle), maintaining biological clocks, and influencing seasonal reproductive functions in some animals. Thymosin is from the thymus, oxytocin from the posterior pituitary.