Journal of Pineal Research is a forum for the original scientific results of basic, applied, and clinical research involving any aspect of the pineal gland or its hormonal products in all vertebrate species. The journal also fully considers the biological functions and activities of melatonin in non-vertebrate species, plants and microorganisms. Essential criteria for publication are scientific importance, novelty, and timeliness, as well as clarity of presentation. Experimental data that are contrary to currently accepted thinking or divergent from actual dogma will be considered, provided the findings are based on solid, new experimental observations. All submitted papers must be complete in themselves. Case reports will be considered if the findings contribute significantly to an understanding of some aspect of the pineal gland and melatonin research. It is the expressed aim of the journal to serve pineal gland and melatonin researchers in all disciplines.