Description

The hypothalamus is the body’s master endocrine gland. The hypothalamus directly or indirectly controls nearly all the hormonal processes in the body.

The hypothalamus is responsible for the integration of many basic behavioral patterns involving neural and endocrine function. Its leasing hormones control the secretions of the anterior pituitary.

The hypothalamus also synthesizes the hormones oxytocin which is involved in milk secretion and uterine motility and ADH (antidiuretic hormone) even though they are actually released by the posterior pituitary.