Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 14, 2026
09:29
Isolation of Targeted Hypothalamic Neurons for Studies of Hormonal, Metabolic, and Electrical Regulation
Published on: August 4, 2023
The adaptive brain: Glenn Hatton and the supraoptic nucleus
G Leng1, F C Moos, W E Armstrong
1Centre for Integrative Physiology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK. gareth.leng@ed.ac.uk
Journal of Neuroendocrinology
|March 20, 2010
Summary
Neuroendocrinology lost a pioneer, Glenn Hatton, who advanced our understanding of the hypothalamus. His work highlighted the dynamic structure and adaptable function of the neuroendocrine brain.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Physiology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Neuroendocrinology lost a pioneer, Glenn Hatton, in December 2009.
- Hatton significantly contributed to understanding the hypothalamus and its functions.
- His research integrated functional morphology and electrophysiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To honor Glenn Hatton's contributions to neuroendocrinology.
- To summarize Hatton's vision of the neuroendocrine brain as dynamic and adaptable.
- To highlight the role of neuronal and glial cells, particularly astrocytes, in physiological adaptation.
Main Methods:
- Review of Glenn Hatton's research and contributions.
- Synthesis of Hatton's work on the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system.
- Integration of functional morphology and electrophysiological approaches.
Main Results:
- Hatton's work demonstrated the dynamic structure of the neuroendocrine brain.
- His research showed the adaptability of neuronal and glial cell morphology in response to physiological demands.
- Astrocytes were recognized as crucial partners in neuronal adaptation.
Conclusions:
- Glenn Hatton's legacy lies in his comprehensive understanding of the hypothalamus.
- The neuroendocrine brain exhibits structural dynamism and functional adaptability.
- Astrocytes play an essential role in supporting neuronal adaptation to physiological changes.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:23Diencephalon: Hypothalamus and Coordination
The hypothalamus is a small yet highly complex and essential brain region that plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions. Anatomically, it is located at the base of the brain, just above the brainstem and below the thalamus, forming part of the limbic system.
The hypothalamus interacts with other brain regions, including the pituitary gland, through a direct physical connection called the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. The hypothalamus receives somatic and visceral inputs and...
The hypothalamus interacts with other brain regions, including the pituitary gland, through a direct physical connection called the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. The hypothalamus receives somatic and visceral inputs and...
01:30Diencephalon: Anatomical Regions
The diencephalon, etymologically translated as 'through brain,' plays an integral role as the conduit between the cerebrum and the vast extent of the nervous system. However, the olfactory system is an exception, as it interfaces directly with the cerebrum. The diencephalon, deeply ensconced beneath the cerebrum, primarily consists of three paired structures — the thalamus, hypothalamus, and epithelamus. It also includes accessory structures such as the subthalamus, which houses the subthalamic...
01:17The Pituitary Gland
The pituitary is a small endocrine organ in the sphenoid bone under the hypothalamus. Primarily, the pituitary in adults has two distinct anatomical and functional regions— the anterior and posterior lobes. During human fetal development, a third pituitary gland region called the pars intermedia atrophies and disappears. However, some of its cells migrate and exist adjacent to the anterior pituitary in adults.
01:21Brainstem: Control Centers of Medulla
The medulla oblongata is a crucial part of the brainstem responsible for controlling various autonomic and involuntary functions. It contains several nuclei, including the olivary, cuneate, gracile, and solitary nuclei.
Olivary Nucleus
The olivary nucleus, or inferior olivary nucleus, is located within the ventrolateral part of the medulla oblongata. It is primarily involved in motor coordination and motor learning. The olivary nucleus receives input from the spinal cord, cerebellum, and motor...
Olivary Nucleus
The olivary nucleus, or inferior olivary nucleus, is located within the ventrolateral part of the medulla oblongata. It is primarily involved in motor coordination and motor learning. The olivary nucleus receives input from the spinal cord, cerebellum, and motor...
01:30Regulation of Food Intake
Short-term regulation of food intake primarily involves neural signals from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, blood nutrient levels, and GI tract hormones. Communication between the gut and brain via vagal nerve fibers plays a significant role in evaluating the contents of the gut. Clinical studies have shown that protein ingestion produces a more prolonged response in these nerve fibers compared to an equivalent amount of glucose. Additionally, the activation of stretch receptors caused by GI...
01:30Organization of the Brain
The brain is an integral component of the nervous system and serves as the center for processing sensory inputs, making decisions, and directing bodily actions. This complex organ is organized into three primary sections: the hindbrain, midbrain, and forebrain, each responsible for a range of vital functions.
Hindbrain
The hindbrain, located at the base of the brain, plays a vital role in regulating automatic processes that sustain life. It includes the medulla oblongata, which is essential for...
Hindbrain
The hindbrain, located at the base of the brain, plays a vital role in regulating automatic processes that sustain life. It includes the medulla oblongata, which is essential for...