The hypothalamus is the key control centre of the endocrine system. It is responsible for coordinating the release of hormones from the pituitary gland, which is the master gland of the body. The hypothalamus sends chemical signals, called releasing hormones, to the pituitary gland when it needs to increase or decrease the release of a certain hormone. The hypothalamus also influences the activity of other endocrine glands, including the thyroid and adrenal glands, by regulating the production of their respective hormones. In addition, the hypothalamus helps to regulate appetite, thirst, body temperature, emotional state, and other vital homeostatic functions.
HIPOTHALAMAS,