MRCPsych course
Functions of Hypothalamus
ANTERIOR part of Hypothalamus
Anterior nucleus – to cool down body. Parasympathetic
Supraoptic nucleus – ADH release-
regulates water intake
Preoptic nucleus – sexual & reproductive function
Suprachiasmatic nucleus – circadian rhythm
(biological clock)- sleep-wake cycle
CENTRAL part of Hypothalamus
Paraventricular nucleus – oxytocin – milk ejection,
contraction of uterus at birth
Ventromedial nucleus – satiety centre.
(lesion causes hyperphagia)
Dorsomedial nucleus -
Lateral nucleus - hunger centre
(lesion causes anorexia)
Arcuate nucleus –
POSTERIOR part of HYPOTHALAMUS
Posterior nucleus – to keep body
warm. Sympathetic
Mammillary nucleus – part of limbic -
emotion e.g. fear, rage
Functions of Hypothalamus (mnemonics SEAFEAST):
- Sexual & reproductive function
- Endocrine – control release of
hormones from adenohypophysis & neurohypophysis
- Autonomic nervous system regulation
- Fluids - maintenance of body fluids
- Emotional regulation
- Appetite/food intake contol
- Sleep-wake cycle
- Temperature control of body
MRCPsych course
