Hypothalamus

The hypothalamus is an important region of the brain which controls numerous different systems within the body and its main function is maintaining homeostasis via the secretion of different chemicals or hormones produced either by itself or by the pituitary gland which it controls.This allows the hypothalamus to mediate and control many behavioural functions and emotions. The hypothalamus is also a vital part of the autonomic nervous system and therefore responsible for many of the subconscious activities of the body^[1].

What is the hypothalamus?

The Hypothalamus is an important part of the brain. To figure out the functions of this region, we must understand exactly what it is! The diencephalon is a region of the brain that is between the cerebrum and the brain stem. This can be split into two main areas: the thalamus and the hypothalamus as well as the pineal glands and the pituitary gland. Located underneath the thalamus, the hypothalamus is an important aspect of homeostasis even though it only takes up 1% of the brain. It is the centre of many functions that are part of the endocrine system^[2] .

Functions of the Hypothalamus

Maintains the right body temperature by processes such as shivering and sweating.

The sympathetic is activated which is important to maintain glucose concentration as well as the release of catecholamine from adrenal medulla^[3].

References

1. ↑ Neuroanatomy, Hypothalamus. available at:http://www.neuroanatomy.wisc.edu/coursebook/neuro2%282%29.pdf
2. ↑ Dee Unglaub Silverthorn. Human Physiology: An integrated approach. 6th Edition, United States of America: Pearson Education Inc. 2013;
3. ↑ Dee Unglaub Silverthorn. Human Physiology: An integrated approach. 6th Edition, United States of America: Pearson Education Inc. 2013