Which of the following statements about the hypothalamus is NOT correct?

• A. The hypothalamus regulates body temperature.
• B. The hypothalamus directly secretes hormones into the bloodstream.
• C. The hypothalamus is responsible for producing oxytocin.
• D. The hypothalamus plays a role in controlling hunger and thirst.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the role of the hypothalamus in the endocrine system. The hypothalamus is a crucial part of the brain that links the nervous system to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland.
2. Understand the functions of the hypothalamus. It regulates body temperature, hunger, thirst, and circadian rhythms, and it also plays a role in emotional responses.
3. Recognize the relationship between the hypothalamus and hormone production. The hypothalamus produces hormones like oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone (ADH), but it does not directly secrete them into the bloodstream. Instead, these hormones are transported to the posterior pituitary gland for release.
4. Evaluate the statement about direct hormone secretion. The hypothalamus does not directly secrete hormones into the bloodstream; this is done by the pituitary gland, which releases hormones produced by the hypothalamus.
5. Determine which statement is incorrect based on the above understanding. The statement that the hypothalamus directly secretes hormones into the bloodstream is not correct, as it is the pituitary gland that performs this function.