The hypothalamus is the neural center of the endocrine system, the regulator of the autonomic nervous system, and the circadian and seasonal clock for behavioral and sleep-wake functions. The hypothalamus maintains homeostasis by integrating cortical, limbic, and spinal inputs and by affecting hormone release, temperature regulation, intake of food and water, sexual behavior and reproduction, emotional responses, and diurnal rhythms. As the link from the nervous system to the endocrine system, the hypothalamus synthesizes and secretes neurohormones that stimulate or inhibit the secretion of pituitary hormones.
