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Which structures make up the diencephalon?
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human nervous system
The conduction of electrochemical stimuli from sensory receptors in the human nervous system occurs via organized groups of specialized cells, consisting largely of neurons, various neural support cells, and tracts of nerve fibers.
The diencephalon is a region of the forebrain located beneath the cerebral hemispheres. It is composed of four primary structures:
- Thalamus: A pair of large, ovoid organs that serve as a major relay center for sensory and motor signals traveling to the cerebral cortex.12
- Hypothalamus: Situated below the thalamus, this structure regulates vital visceral functions, including body temperature, hunger, thirst, and the endocrine system via the pituitary gland.23
- Epithalamus: Located posterior to the third ventricle, it is primarily represented by the pineal gland, which helps regulate biological rhythms through the synthesis of melatonin.24
- Subthalamus: Positioned behind and to the sides of the hypothalamus, it is mainly represented by the subthalamic nucleus and is involved in motor control.25