Median eminence

Median Eminence

The Median Eminence is a part of the hypothalamus that is crucial in the regulation of various bodily functions. It is located at the base of the brain, where the pituitary gland is attached. The Median Eminence plays a significant role in the neuroendocrine system, acting as a key interface between the nervous system and the endocrine system.

Etymology

The term "Median Eminence" is derived from the Latin words "medius" meaning middle, and "eminens" meaning prominent or projecting. This refers to its central location and its prominence in the hypothalamic region of the brain.

Anatomy

The Median Eminence is located at the base of the brain, specifically at the bottom of the hypothalamus, just above the pituitary gland. It is part of the tuberal region of the hypothalamus, which also includes the arcuate nucleus and the ventromedial nucleus. The Median Eminence is a critical part of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, which is the primary regulator of the body's endocrine system.

Function

The primary function of the Median Eminence is to act as a gateway for information from the brain to the pituitary gland. It does this by releasing neurohormones into the hypophyseal portal system, which then carries these hormones to the pituitary gland. This process allows the brain to regulate a wide range of bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, reproduction, and stress response.

Related Terms

• Hypothalamus
• Pituitary gland
• Neuroendocrine system
• Hypothalamic-pituitary axis
• Neurohormones
• Hypophyseal portal system

See Also

• Neuroendocrinology
• Endocrine system
• Brain anatomy

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