Corpora arenacea
Corpora arenacea
Corpora arenacea (pronunciation: /kɔːrˈpoʊrə ˌærɪˈniːʃə/), also known as brain sand or acervuli, are calcified structures that can be found in the human pineal gland and other areas of the body.
Etymology
The term "corpora arenacea" is derived from Latin, with "corpora" meaning "bodies" and "arenacea" meaning "sandy". This refers to the sandy, grain-like appearance of these structures under a microscope.
Description
Corpora arenacea are small, calcified deposits that can be found in various parts of the body, but are most commonly found in the pineal gland. They are composed of calcium, magnesium, and other trace elements. The exact function of corpora arenacea is not fully understood, but they are believed to be a byproduct of the aging process.
Related Terms
- Pineal gland: A small endocrine gland in the brain that produces melatonin, a hormone that affects the modulation of wake/sleep patterns and photoperiodic (seasonal) functions.
- Calcification: The accumulation of calcium salts in a body tissue. It normally occurs in the formation of bone, but calcium can be deposited abnormally in soft tissue causing it to harden.
- Endocrine system: The collection of glands that produce hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood, among other things.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Corpora arenacea
- Wikipedia's article - Corpora arenacea
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