Forebrain (Prosencephalon)

The forebrain includes the cerebral hemispheres and, under these, the brainstem, which contains the thalamus and hypothalamus. The thalamus is the main relay center between the medulla and cerebrum; the hypothalamus is an important control center for sex drive, pleasure, pain, hunger, thirst, blood pressure, body temperature, and other visceral functions. The hypothalamus produces hormones that control the secretions of the anterior pituitary gland. It also produces oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone, which are stored and released by the posterior pituitary gland.