Influence of Different Light Spectra on Melatonin Synthesis by the Pineal Gland and Influence on the Immune System in Chickens

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The pineal gland, in conjunction with its hormone melatonin, possesses the capability to perceive and interpret the light signals from the environment, thereby regulating the physiology, metabolism, and behavior of avian species. This investigation aims to explore the associations between melatonin and immune system functioning. Through an exploration of the immune-pineal axis, our objective is to gain insight into various aspects, including the development of the pineal gland, the influence of light on pineal secretory activity, and the effects of melatonin on lymphoid organs. The findings of this study demonstrate that the utilization of green monochromatic light (560 nm) and blue monochromatic light (480 nm) leads to an increase in melatonin levels in the bloodstream. Furthermore, it ameliorates the inflammatory response, protected lymphoid organs against oxidative stress, and promotes a stronger immune response. In this case, melatonin should be considered a potent antioxidant and immunomodulator. ABSTRACT: It is well known that the pineal gland in birds influences behavioural and physiological functions, including those of the immune system. The purpose of this research is to examine the endocrine–immune correlations between melatonin and immune system activity. Through a description of the immune–pineal axis, we formulated the objective to determine and describe: the development of the pineal gland; how light influences secretory activity; and how melatonin influences the activity of primary and secondary lymphoid organs. The pineal gland has the ability to turn light information into an endocrine signal suitable for the immune system via the membrane receptors Mel1a, Mel1b, and Mel1c, as well as the nuclear receptors RORα, RORβ, and RORγ. We can state the following findings: green monochromatic light (560 nm) increased serum melatonin levels and promoted a stronger humoral and cellular immune response by proliferating B and T lymphocytes; the combination of green and blue monochromatic light (560–480 nm) ameliorated the inflammatory response and protected lymphoid organs from oxidative stress; and red monochromatic light (660 nm) maintained the inflammatory response and promoted the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Melatonin can be considered a potent antioxidant and immunomodulator and is a critical element in the coordination between external light stimulation and the body’s internal response.