Arcuate nucleus

Arcuate nucleus is a collection of neurons that form an arc-shaped region in the hypothalamus. It is a critical component of the neuroendocrine system, playing a significant role in the regulation of hunger, thirst, and body temperature.

Anatomy

The arcuate nucleus is located at the base of the brain, in the mediobasal part of the hypothalamus. It is situated adjacent to the third ventricle and is bordered by the median eminence and the infundibulum of the pituitary gland.

Function

The arcuate nucleus is involved in several key physiological processes. It contains two distinct populations of neurons that play a crucial role in energy homeostasis. One group of neurons produces neuropeptide Y (NPY) and agouti-related peptide (AgRP), which stimulate appetite. The other group produces pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) and cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART), which suppress appetite.

The arcuate nucleus also plays a role in the regulation of the reproductive system. It contains neurons that produce gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which controls the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland.

Clinical significance

Dysfunction of the arcuate nucleus has been implicated in several disorders. For example, mutations in the genes encoding for POMC and NPY can lead to obesity. Additionally, damage to the arcuate nucleus can result in hypothalamic disease, which can cause a variety of symptoms, including amenorrhea, infertility, and growth hormone deficiency.

See also

• Hypothalamus
• Neuroendocrine system
• Obesity

References

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