1. Hypothalamus Clark Mannas and Harrison Cardwell 4B

2. Overview • The hypothalamus is located in the brain • It is central, under the thalamus • Some of the main functions involve body temperature control and the linking of the nervous system to the endocrine system with the pituitary gland. • The hypothalamus has many distinct nuclei • It is highly connected with other parts of the brain and nervous system

3. Hormone Production • Gonadotropin (releasing hormone – GnRH) Controls follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), stimulates testes and ovaries • Thyrotropin (releasing hormone – TRH) Promotes thryoid stimulating hormone (TSH) and prolactin (PRL) secretion • Corticotropin (releasing hormone – CRH) Promotes growth hormone (GH) secretion • SomatostatinInhibits GH and TSH secretion • Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) Prevents dehydration through reduced urine volume and subsequent greater water retention • Oxytocin (OT) Responsible for feelings of lust and love, is especially prevalent in sexual intercourse

4. Regulation • The Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis is unique in its self-regulation; the hormones of one (for instance, cortisol, an inhibitor for the hypothalamus) will bind to the other, stoppping further production • This perfect, symbiotic relationship is referred to as negative feedback inhibition

5. Hypothalamic disease • Hypothalamic disease can be caused by eating disorders or malnutrition, as well as genetic disorders or trauma • This can interfere with hormone production as well as the maintenance of homeostasis • The vast area of effect yields symptoms ranging from vision loss to tumors to impotence • As far as treatment, the tumors can be dealt with through surgery or radiation, where the hormone deficiencies can be handled with a replacement of those that are lacking

6. Sources • http://quizlet.com/5823150/eight-hormones-produced-in-the-hypothalamus-flash-cards/ • http://www.psychologytoday.com/basics/oxytocin • http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001202.htm • http://courses.washington.edu/conj/bess/feedback/newfeedback.html