INFUNDIBULAR NUCLEUS Meaning and
Definition
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The infundibular nucleus, also known as the tuberal region or tuber cinereum, is a small region located in the hypothalamus, a key structure within the brain that plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions. The infundibular nucleus is situated at the base of the third ventricle and lies just above the pituitary gland.
This nucleus is characterized by its funnel-shaped appearance, hence the name "infundibular." It is composed of a dense collection of neuronal cell bodies and serves as an important link between the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland. The infundibular nucleus has several vital functions, including the release of various hormones and the regulation of reproductive and metabolic processes.
Specifically, the infundibular nucleus plays a critical role in the secretion of prolactin, a hormone responsible for lactation. It also has connections with other hypothalamic regions involved in the regulation of appetite, body temperature, and the sleep-wake cycle. Additionally, the infundibular nucleus is involved in the control of hormone release from the pituitary gland, acting as a conduit for signals from the brain to reach the gland and influence its function.
Overall, the infundibular nucleus is a crucial component of the hypothalamus that is responsible for regulating several physiological processes and maintaining homeostasis within the body.
Common Misspellings for INFUNDIBULAR NUCLEUS
- unfundibular nucleus
- jnfundibular nucleus
- knfundibular nucleus
- onfundibular nucleus
- 9nfundibular nucleus
- 8nfundibular nucleus
- ibfundibular nucleus
- imfundibular nucleus
- ijfundibular nucleus
- ihfundibular nucleus
- indundibular nucleus
- incundibular nucleus
- invundibular nucleus
- ingundibular nucleus
- intundibular nucleus
- inrundibular nucleus
- infyndibular nucleus
- infhndibular nucleus
- infjndibular nucleus
- infindibular nucleus
Etymology of INFUNDIBULAR NUCLEUS
The word "infundibular nucleus" is derived from Latin and has its roots in two terms: "infundibulum" and "nucleus".
1. Infundibulum: The term "infundibulum" comes from the Latin word "infundibulum", which translates to "a funnel". In Latin, "in-" is a prefix denoting "into", and "fundus" means "bottom" or "base". Hence, "infundibulum" refers to a structure that has a conical or funnel-like shape, narrowing towards the base.
2. Nucleus: The word "nucleus" also comes from Latin and translates to "kernel" or "core". In anatomy and physiology, it is widely used to refer to a concentration of nerve cells forming a compact mass within the central nervous system.
