The hypothalamus is an integrative centre, and is a key part of the body’s regulatory system1. Almost every major subdivision of the CNS communicates with the hypothalamus and is also subject to its influence. The hypothalamus also communicates with the peripheral organs by converting synaptic information to hormonal signals2
The hypothalamus affects the regulations of autonomic functions such as heart rate via its influence on the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system.1,3
It also affects thermoregulation, hunger and thirst, sleep and circadian rhythms, emotional and behavioural responses as well as sexual and reproductive behavior.1,3,5,6,7
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