Pineal N-acetyltransferase activity: effect of sympathetic stimulation.

Stimulation of preganglionic sympathetic fibers to the superior cervical ganglia elevates the activity of pineal N-acetyltransferase. After the stimulation-induced rise in enzyme activity, a return toward baseline levels occurs whether or not nerve stimulation is continued. The ability of pineal N-acetyltransferase activity to fall in the presence of stimulation may account for the persistence of its rhythm in blinded animals.