The Diencephalon

Distinct parts of diencephalon perform numerous vital functions, from regulating wakefulness to controlling the autonomic nervous system.

The thalamus is a small structure in the center of the brain that acts as a relay center for sensory and motor information.

The hypothalamus serves as a gateway between the nervous system and endocrine system.

The epithalamus connects the limbic system to other parts of the brain.

Circumventricular organs are situated adjacent to the brain ventricles and sense concentrations of various compounds in the blood.