Hypothalamus

Definition
A region of the brain composed of many small nuclei with diverse functions.
Act as a channel between the nervous and endocrine systems
It has a tubular connection with the pituitary gland (hypophysis), and has effects on the endocrine system because of its complex interaction with the pituitary gland.

Location
Located above the midbrain and below the thalamus,
Forms the floor of the third ventricle

Connections
The hypothalamus and pituitary gland are connected by both nervous and chemical pathways.
The posterior portion of the hypothalamus, called the median eminence, contains the nerve endings of many neurosecretory cells, which run down through the infundibular stalk into the pituitary gland.

Hormones Secreted
Hypothalamic neurohormones are known as releasing hormones
which stimulate the secretion of hormones by anterior pituitary gland. (adrenocorticotropic hormone and luteinizing hormone)
Somatostatin, inhibits the secretion of growth hormone
Dpamine  inhibits the secretion of the anterior pituitary hormone prolactin.
The cell bodies of the neurons that produce these neurohormones are are grouped together known as nuclei.
Vasopressin and oxytocin  (the supraoptic nuclei and the paraventricular nuclei). The granules are carried to the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland.

Functions
It contains a control centre for the autonomic nervous system,
Regulates homeostatic functions such as
hunger,
thirst,
body temperature,
circadian rhythms (wakefulness and sleep)

























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