The optic chiasm is located on the undersurface of the hypothalamus near the pituitary gland. The optic nerves cross in an 'X' formation at the optic chiasm. This is where the fibres from the medial (or nasal) half of each retina cross and join the optic tract of the opposite side and continue to the brain. Research Optic Chiasm
The thalamus is located in the midportion of the diencephalon, a structure between the cerebrum and midbrain which also contains the epithalamus, the hypothalamus, and the subthalamus and surrounds the third ventricle. The
thalamus contains nerve centers responsible for optic and auditory reflexes, equilibrium, and posture. The hypothalamus contains the optic chiasm, the infundibulum, and the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland. It houses centers responsible for maintaining and regulating metabolism, body temperature, and emotions which affect heart rate, appetite, sexual arousal, and blood pressure. Research Thalamus
The Probert Encyclopaedia was designed, edited and programed by
Matt and Leela Probert
Abbreviations
Research Optic Chiasm
