The hypothalamus is a small but crucial part of the brain located below the thalamus. It plays a key role in regulating various autonomic processes and linking the nervous system to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland.
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The hypothalamus regulates essential functions such as body temperature, hunger, thirst, and circadian rhythms.
It produces releasing and inhibiting hormones that control the release of hormones from the anterior pituitary gland.
The hypothalamus is involved in emotional responses by interacting with the limbic system.
It directly influences both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system.
Dysfunction of the hypothalamus can result in conditions like diabetes insipidus, growth disorders, and problems with temperature regulation.