Question

Describe the location of the hypothalamus and list its functions. Explain how it serves as a link between the nervous and endocrine systems.

Answer 1

Answer:

Hypothalamus location and functions:

• The hypothalamus is located in the diencephalon region of the forebrain above the pituitary gland.
• Functions of hypothalamus includes:
  • Regulation of aggression, pain and pleasure, fear, loathing.
  • Controlling body temperature and sleeping pattern (biorythms)
  • Control of autonomic regulatory activities
  • Regulation of food intake (satiety)
  • Regulation of thirst and water balance.
  • Hypothalamus synthesizes and secretes hormones called as hypothalamic releasing hormones, Anti-Diuretic Hormones ADH (vasopressin),  oxytocin, Growth hormone-releasing hormon,e Corticotropin-releasing hormone.

Link between the nervous system and endocrine systems:

• Hypothalamus links the nervous system to the endocrine system through the pituitary gland.
• It controls the secretion of the pituitary glands. Oxytocin and ADH hormone are exported to the posterior pituitary where they are stored and released later.
• It secretes releasing hormone and inhibiting hormones that stimulates or suppresses the secretion of pituitary hormones respectively.
• The pituitary gland is used as as master control over the endocrine system.