Gross structure of diencephalon

Question 1

What is diencephalon

Answer 1

1. Paired structure.
2. Forms the central core of the cerebrum.
3. Located between the midbrain & the cerebral hemisphere.
4. Encloses the cavity of the 3rd ventricle.
5. On the medial surface, the diencephalon is subdivided, by hypothalamic sulcus into:
   -Dorsal part
   -Ventral part

Question 2

Relation in diencephalon

Answer 2

1. Dorsal: Lateral ventricle
2. Ventral: Exposed on the base of the brain
3. Lateral: Internal capsule
4. Medial: 3rd ventricle

Question 3

Parts of diencephalon and its functions

Answer 3

1. Epithalamus: It is associated with circadian rhythm.
2. Thalamus: It receives all sensory information, plays a role in voluntary motor activity and controls mood, emotion, sexual behaviour and memory.
3. Subthalamus: It is associated with basal ganglia (functionally).
4. Hypothalamus: It controls blood pressure and electrolyte, regulate body temperature, energy metabolism, reproduction functions and stress responses.